Can pregnant women eat lychees?

Jun 06, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 22 years old and would like to know whether pregnant women can eat lychee.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

Generally speaking, pregnant women can eat lychee, but they should consume it in moderation.

Lychee is rich in various nutrients, such as vitamin C, B vitamins, glucose, sucrose, protein, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties and can enhance the immunity of pregnant women, helping them resist external bacterial and viral infections and reduce the risk of illness during pregnancy. Lychee has a delicious taste, sweet and juicy flavor, and its unique aroma and taste can stimulate the taste buds of pregnant women and increase appetite. Many pregnant women experience poor appetite during pregnancy, and eating moderate amounts of lychee can improve this condition, ensuring adequate nutrient intake and providing sufficient energy and nutrition for fetal growth and development.

However, it should be consumed in moderation, as lychee has a relatively high sugar content. Excessive consumption by pregnant women may cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes not only affects the health of the pregnant woman but may also have adverse effects on fetal growth and development, such as causing fetal macrosomia, preterm birth, or miscarriage. Lychee is a warm-natured fruit, and excessive consumption can easily cause heatiness, leading to symptoms such as dry mouth, sore throat, oral ulcers, and constipation.

Pregnant women can eat lychee but should follow the principle of moderation, paying attention to their individual constitution, as well as the ripeness and hygiene of the lychee. If there are any concerns or special health conditions, it is recommended to consult a doctor or nutritionist. A balanced and diversified diet is more important during pregnancy, and nutrition should not be overly reliant on a single food item.