Q&A with Top Doctors

Can pregnant women eat cantaloupe?

Pregnant women can eat cantaloupe in moderation, but should pay attention to controlling the amount consumed and their own physical condition.

Cantaloupe is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, magnesium, and other minerals, as well as antioxidants. It has a high water content, which can help pregnant women replenish fluids and relieve thirst during pregnancy. Vitamin C helps boost immunity and prevent colds; vitamin A is beneficial for vision protection and skin health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and prevent hypertension during pregnancy, while magnesium helps relax muscles and reduce leg cramps.

It should be noted that cantaloupe has a relatively high sugar content, and excessive consumption may cause elevated blood sugar levels and increase the risk of gestational diabetes. Therefore, pregnant women should consume it in moderation, with a general recommendation of no more than 200 grams per day. Additionally, cantaloupe has a cooling nature, and excessive consumption by pregnant women with cold deficiency of the spleen and stomach may cause discomfort such as bloating and diarrhea. It is recommended to consume it in balance with other warm-natured fruits. The surface should be thoroughly washed before consumption to avoid pesticide residues or bacterial contamination. If stored in the refrigerator after cutting, it should be brought back to room temperature before consumption to reduce gastrointestinal irritation.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025
Is it good for pregnant women to consume Ejiao (donkey-hide gelatin)?

Whether or not it is beneficial for pregnant women to consume Ejiao (donkey-hide gelatin) must be determined based on individual constitution and the stage of pregnancy; a one-size-fits-all approach is not appropriate.

Ejiao is a traditional Chinese medicine used for nourishing and replenishing blood. Its main component is collagen protein derived from donkey hide, rich in amino acids and trace elements. According to TCM theory, Ejiao has functions of nourishing blood, stopping bleeding, nourishing yin, and moistening dryness. If a pregnant woman suffers from blood deficiency, such as pallor, fatigue, or dizziness, and is diagnosed by a TCM practitioner as having a blood-deficiency constitution, she may take Ejiao in moderation under medical supervision during the second trimester to help alleviate anemia and physical weakness.

However, it should be noted that Ejiao has a sticky and rich nature, which makes it difficult to digest. Pregnant women with weak spleen and stomach function during early pregnancy may experience worsened nausea and vomiting if they consume Ejiao. In late pregnancy, Ejiao may cause abdominal distension and constipation, and excessive nourishment may increase the burden on placental blood flow. Furthermore, Ejiao is not suitable for all pregnant women. Those with damp-heat constitution or experiencing symptoms such as colds, fever, or diarrhea should avoid taking Ejiao so as not to trap pathogenic factors inside the body.

If a pregnant woman suffers from iron-deficiency anemia, iron supplements and dietary adjustments should be prioritized rather than relying solely on Ejiao.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025
Can pregnant women eat sunflower seeds?

Pregnant women can consume sunflower seeds in moderation, but should pay attention to controlling the quantity and method of consumption. Sunflower seeds are rich in protein, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, potassium, magnesium, and other nutrients. Linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid for the human body, contributes to fetal nervous system development; vitamin E has antioxidant properties and may help support pregnancy; potassium assists in regulating electrolyte balance and may help alleviate edema during pregnancy.

However, sunflower seeds are high in calories, and excessive consumption may lead to rapid weight gain in pregnant women, increasing the risk of gestational diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and other conditions. Additionally, some commercially available sunflower seeds may contain added salt, sugar, spices, or other seasonings. Excessive sodium intake can worsen edema and may elevate blood pressure. It is recommended to choose plain, additive-free sunflower seeds, with a suggested serving size of 20–30 grams per consumption.

Pregnant women with nut allergies should avoid consuming sunflower seeds. They should chew thoroughly and eat slowly to prevent coughing or choking. If symptoms such as indigestion or abdominal bloating occur, consumption should be reduced.

Therefore, pregnant women are advised to consume sunflower seeds in moderation and choose plain or unprocessed varieties. At the same time, pregnant women should maintain a balanced and diverse diet, combining various foods appropriately to ensure comprehensive nutritional support.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025
Can pregnant women eat frog meat?

Pregnant women are generally advised not to eat frogs to avoid potential discomfort.

Frogs are wild amphibians that may carry parasites such as sparganum and Spirometra mansoni, as well as bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria. These pathogens might not be completely eliminated even after high-temperature cooking. Infection in pregnant women may cause abdominal pain and diarrhea, and could potentially affect fetal development through the placenta, increasing the risk of miscarriage and fetal malformations. Particularly wild frogs, which live in complex environments, have a higher probability of infection.

Frogs raised in agricultural fields may ingest pesticides and insecticides or accumulate heavy metals due to environmental pollution. After consumption by pregnant women, these toxins may enter the fetal body through the bloodstream, affecting the development of the nervous system, kidneys, and other organs.

The main nutritional component of frog meat is protein, but common foods such as eggs, milk, lean meat, and fish can also provide high-quality protein with greater safety. For example, deep-sea fish are rich in DHA, which supports fetal brain development, and iron in lean meat can help prevent anemia during pregnancy. Choosing these alternative ingredients can meet nutritional needs while avoiding the health risks associated with eating frogs.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025
Can pregnant women take Banlangen granules?

Whether pregnant women can take Banlangen Granules needs to be determined according to their individual circumstances.

Banlangen Granules are commonly used traditional Chinese medicine preparations. The main ingredient is Isatis root (Banlangen), which has functions of clearing heat, detoxifying, relieving sore throat, and reducing swelling. They are often used to treat symptoms such as fever from the common cold and sore throat. From the perspective of drug composition, Isatis root itself has low toxicity and is relatively safe when used at conventional doses.

However, as a special population, pregnant women must consider the safety of the fetus when taking medications. If a pregnant woman only experiences mild discomfort, it is recommended to first try alleviating symptoms by drinking more water, getting adequate rest, adjusting diet, and avoiding blind medication use. If symptoms are severe and Banlangen Granules are needed, they should be taken under the guidance of a physician or pharmacist. The physician will evaluate the necessity and risks based on the pregnant woman's specific condition and determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment. In addition, Banlangen Granules produced by different manufacturers may have slightly different formulations. Before taking the medication, pregnant women should carefully read the drug's instruction leaflet to check for any warnings indicating contraindications or cautious use during pregnancy.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025
Can pregnant women take Compound Ferrous Sulfate and Folic Acid Tablets?

Whether pregnant women can take Compound Ferrous Sulfate and Folic Acid Tablets should be determined by considering the drug's effects and the characteristics of pregnancy.

Compound Ferrous Sulfate and Folic Acid Tablets are a combined formulation used for iron supplementation and folic acid replenishment. Ferrous sulfate helps correct iron deficiency anemia, while folic acid prevents fetal neural tube defects. These tablets are commonly used for treating iron deficiency anemia. During pregnancy, the demand for both iron and folic acid increases. If diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, it is generally safe for pregnant women to take this medication appropriately under a doctor's guidance.

However, it is important to follow the principle of medical necessity when using medications during pregnancy. In the early stages of pregnancy (a critical period for fetal development), self-administration of the drug is not recommended unless there is a clear medical indication. Additionally, the iron in the medication may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Pregnant women, being more sensitive to medications, should monitor their reactions after taking the drug. If severe gastrointestinal reactions or allergic symptoms occur, the medication should be discontinued immediately and medical advice sought.

Before taking the medication, a clear diagnosis must be made through blood tests such as a complete blood count. The dosage must strictly be controlled under a doctor's supervision to avoid iron toxicity caused by excessive iron supplementation or the risk of excess folic acid intake masking symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025
Can pregnant women drink yogurt?

Pregnant women can适量 consume yogurt, which is beneficial for their health.

Yogurt is made by fermenting milk. It retains the high-quality protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A and other nutrients found in milk. The fermentation process also breaks down lactose, making it easier to digest and absorb, thus suitable for pregnant women with weak gastrointestinal function or lactose intolerance. In addition, yogurt contains a large amount of active probiotics, such as bifidobacteria and lactobacillus acidophilus. These beneficial bacteria help regulate the balance of intestinal flora, alleviate common pregnancy constipation issues, and enhance intestinal immunity.

However, when consuming yogurt, attention should be paid to choosing products from reputable sources with qualified quality. Avoid flavored yogurts with excessive added sugar and flavoring agents to prevent excessive sugar intake, which may increase the risk of gestational diabetes. Furthermore, it is advisable to drink yogurt at room temperature; allow it to sit for a while after taking it out from the refrigerator before consumption, to prevent cold-induced gastrointestinal discomfort. Pregnant women experiencing diarrhea should consume yogurt cautiously and consult a doctor when necessary to ensure the health of both mother and baby.

Also, maintain good oral hygiene while consuming yogurt to prevent acidic components from damaging teeth.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025
Is mosquito incense harmful to pregnant women?

Coil mosquito repellents pose certain risks to pregnant women and are therefore not recommended for use.

The main ingredient in regular mosquito coils is pyrethroid. When burned, it releases into the air and although it can repel mosquitoes, prolonged inhalation by pregnant women may allow pyrethroids to enter the body through the respiratory system, affecting the nervous system and possibly interfering with normal fetal development. Additionally, burning mosquito coils also produces harmful chemical substances such as benzene and formaldehyde, as well as fine particles. Benzene may damage the pregnant woman's hematopoietic system, formaldehyde can irritate the respiratory tract, causing discomfort such as coughing and dizziness, and fine particles, when inhaled, may increase the burden on the pregnant woman's heart and lungs.

In comparison, electric mosquito repellent liquids or mats are relatively safer, but it is still important to choose products from reputable brands with mild ingredients, and to ensure indoor ventilation when using them. To protect the health of both the pregnant woman and the fetus, it is recommended to prioritize physical methods of mosquito prevention, such as using mosquito nets, window screens, or wearing long-sleeved clothing and long pants, and to minimize the use of mosquito coils.

If mosquito repellent products must be used, choose products that are of reliable quality and have safe ingredients, and follow the instructions strictly. At the same time, ensure good indoor ventilation to reduce the accumulation of harmful substances.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025
Can pregnant women smell mugwort?

Whether pregnant women can be exposed to the scent of artemisia (mugwort) should be carefully evaluated. Generally, limited exposure is acceptable, but long-term contact is not recommended.

From a pharmacological perspective, artemisia contains various volatile components such as eucalyptol and borneol, which have certain pharmacological activities. An appropriate amount of artemisia fragrance can have a calming effect on emotions and help alleviate anxiety and tension during pregnancy. Furthermore, artemisia is warm in nature, bitter and pungent in taste, and acts on the liver, spleen, and kidney meridians. It has functions of warming the meridians to stop bleeding and dispersing cold to relieve pain. For discomfort caused by cold in the uterus, appropriate use of artemisia fumigation or moxibustion may provide some auxiliary therapeutic effects.

However, when the aroma of artemisia is too strong, inhaling large amounts of volatile oils may irritate the sensitive respiratory mucosa of pregnant women, causing coughing or difficulty breathing. Some pregnant women may be allergic to artemisia, experiencing symptoms such as rashes or asthma. Moreover, artemisia has the effect of warming the meridians and promoting circulation in traditional medicine; prolonged and excessive exposure to artemisia smoke may cause uterine contractions, especially in early pregnancy, thereby increasing the risk of threatened miscarriage. Therefore, before being exposed to artemisia scent, pregnant women should try a small amount first. If discomfort occurs, they should immediately move away and seek medical attention if necessary.

During pregnancy, women should maintain healthy lifestyle habits and a positive mindset to ensure the healthy development of the fetus.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025
Does an induction cooker affect pregnant women?

Under normal usage conditions, the impact of induction cookers on pregnant women is minimal.

Induction cookers generate alternating magnetic fields through electric current, causing eddy currents and heat generation at the bottom of iron-containing cookware. They emit a certain amount of electromagnetic radiation during operation. However, this is non-ionizing radiation, which has low energy and generally does not directly damage the DNA structure of the human body. It is fundamentally different from ionizing radiation such as X-rays used in hospitals.

The World Health Organization states that non-ionizing radiation encountered in daily life, including radiation from induction cookers and mobile phones, is far below levels that could cause harm to human health. However, despite the relatively low health risks associated with non-ionizing radiation, long-term exposure to high-intensity electromagnetic fields may still cause some discomfort symptoms, such as fatigue and headaches, which could theoretically pose risks to the health of pregnant women and their fetuses.

Therefore, when using an induction cooker, pregnant women should pay attention to product quality and safety. Choosing reputable brands and reliable quality induction cookers, and following correct usage methods can effectively reduce potential risks.

avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
Jun 13, 2025