No scientific evidence to support causal link between pineapple consumption and loss of pregnancy.
By Naveed Ahmad Najar
It’s commonly believed that consuming pineapple during pregnancy can lead to a miscarriage. There are YouTube videos, with millions of views, as well as articles in mainstream media advising expectant mothers to steer clear of the tropical fruit.
First Check reached out to Dr Ranjana Sharma, a senior consultant in obstetrics and gynecology, urogynaecology, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi, India. “There is no scientific evidence linking the fruit to miscarriage. Pineapples provide essential vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for both, the mother and baby,” maintains the doctor.
Dr Ifrah Aslam, a senior registrar at Lal Ded Maternity Hospital in Srinagar, India, concurs. “There is no evidence of harm in moderate consumption of pineapple,” says the expert. However, large quantities can cause digestive issues due to the enzyme bromelain. Incidentally, the concentration of bromelain is higher in the stem and core area of the pineapple – parts that are typically not consumed.
That apart, consuming pineapple may be unsuitable for pregnant women with diabetes. In most cases, though, a serving of four to five slices is considered to be safe and healthy during pregnancy.
Pineapples are a rich source of folate (known to prevent major birth defects in the foetus), vitamins B1, B6, C, copper, manganese, and fiber, making the fruit a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. There’s no scientific evidence to support the claim that it’s harmful during pregnancy.
