Pineapples are a tasty source of Vitamin C and folate, but are they bad for your baby if you are pregnant?
PREGNANT women in Malaysia are often warned by well-meaning relatives and friends to avoid certain foods, with pineapple being one of the most commonly prohibited fruits.
The belief that eating pineapple can cause miscarriage or induce premature labour has been passed down through generations, leading many expectant mothers to eliminate this tropical fruit from their diets entirely.
But does eating pineapple during pregnancy really cause miscarriage?
Verdict:
FALSE
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that eating pineapple causes miscarriage or induces early labour during pregnancy.
The myth stems from bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, which some believe can trigger uterine contractions and soften the cervix.
However, multiple scientific studies have thoroughly debunked this claim.
A 2011 study examined the correlation between eating pineapples and early labour or miscarriage and found no direct connection between the two.
Several other scientific studies have reached the same conclusion, confirming that pineapples are generally safe to eat during pregnancy.
The key factor is that bromelain is primarily concentrated in the core and stem of the pineapple, not in the flesh that we actually eat.
The amount of bromelain in a normal serving of pineapple is far too low to have any significant impact on pregnancy.
Medical experts estimate that a woman would need to consume approximately 7-10 whole pineapples at once for bromelain to have a significant effect, which is clearly impractical.
Pineapple provides several nutritional benefits for pregnant women. It is rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and is essential for developing a baby's teeth, bones, and other vital tissues.
One cup of pineapple can meet the daily vitamin C requirement for women during pregnancy.
Pineapple also contains folate, which is essential for foetal development and helps prevent birth defects.
Experts recommend that pregnant women consume at least 600 micrograms of folate per day, and a single cup of pineapple provides 30 micrograms.
The fruit is also high in fibre, which supports digestion and helps prevent constipation, a common complaint among expectant mothers.
Its high water content helps maintain hydration, which is particularly important during pregnancy.
The anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain, even in small amounts, can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with swollen joints, a common condition during pregnancy.
However, pregnant women should exercise moderation when consuming pineapple.
The fruit is acidic and may aggravate heartburn or acid reflux, conditions that are already common during pregnancy. Those with a known allergy to pineapple should avoid it entirely.
Women with high-risk pregnancies or a history of miscarriages should consult their healthcare provider before adding pineapple to their diet, though this is a general precaution rather than evidence of danger.
The only time bromelain poses a genuine concern is when taken as a concentrated supplement, which is why pregnant women are advised to avoid bromelain tablets.
The supplement form contains significantly higher doses than what is found naturally in pineapple flesh.
Medical organisations worldwide, including fertility centres and obstetrics departments, confirm that there is no peer-reviewed evidence to support claims that pineapple consumption affects pregnancy outcomes.
The belief that pineapple causes miscarriage is considered a folk tale that has led to its unnecessary exclusion from mothers' diets during pregnancy.
This traditional "pantang", whilst well-intentioned, is not supported by modern medical science.
Pregnant women can safely enjoy normal servings of fresh pineapple, canned pineapple or pineapple juice as part of a balanced, nutritious diet.
If concerns remain, expectant mothers should speak with their doctor about pregnancy-safe foods rather than relying on myths passed down through generations.
References:
1. https://www.healthline.com/
2. https://fertilitycentersoc.
3. https://www.vinmec.com/eng/
4. https://www.thebump.com/a/can-
5. https://www.happiestbaby.com/
6. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
