Can I eat waxberries during pregnancy?

Jun 06, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My older sister is 29 years old today, and she recently became pregnant. I plan to visit her. She loves to eat Chinese bayberries (waxberries) very much, and I wonder if it's safe for her to eat them during pregnancy?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

In general, pregnant women can eat waxberries, but they should be consumed in moderation.

Waxberries are rich in vitamin C, B vitamins, pectin, amino acids, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Vitamin C enhances the pregnant woman's immune system, helping resist external bacterial infections and reducing the likelihood of illness during pregnancy. Calcium is an essential component for fetal bone and tooth development; moderate consumption of waxberries by pregnant women can provide necessary nutritional support for fetal skeletal development. Iron helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia in pregnant women, ensuring the blood health of both the mother and fetus.

Waxberries have a sweet and sour taste, and their unique sourness can stimulate the taste buds of pregnant women, increasing appetite. Many pregnant women experience morning sickness and loss of appetite during early pregnancy, making them unable to eat well. However, it is important to consume them in moderation, as waxberries are acidic fruits, and excessive consumption may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, causing discomfort symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, and acid reflux.

Pesticide residues, dust, and insect eggs may be present on the surface of waxberries. Pregnant women must thoroughly wash waxberries before consumption. If a pregnant woman suffers from gastrointestinal conditions such as gastric ulcers, excessive stomach acid, or has elevated blood sugar levels, she should be more cautious when consuming waxberries and it is advisable to consume them under a doctor's guidance. During pregnancy, maintain a balanced diet, avoid excessively cold, spicy, or irritating foods, and maintain healthy lifestyle habits to promote healthy fetal development.