A rumor has been circulating recently in the Central African Republic, suggesting that consuming pineapple could cause miscarriage.
However, after multiple verifications by Centrafrique Check with health specialists and advanced research using Google, it has been found that pregnant women can eat pineapple, but they should do so correctly by removing the core, not consuming more than 220 grams of pineapple per day, and not eating pineapple continuously for several days. Additionally, they should limit their pineapple consumption during the first three months of pregnancy.
Health Specialists’ Clarifications:
Dr. Mbary Siolo Mada Bebelou, Head of the Nutrition and Food Hygiene Department at the Ministry of Health and Population, interviewed by Centrafrique Check, stated: “Pineapple also contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps break down proteins efficiently, aids digestion, and prevents bloating and indigestion during pregnancy. Pregnant women can eat pineapple but should do so in moderation.”
He added: “Continuous consumption of pineapple can also cause uterine contractions (uterine involution) in pregnant women, thereby increasing the risk of premature labor and miscarriage, especially during the first three months of pregnancy.”
Dr. Ngbalé Norbert Richard, a gynecologist at the Community Hospital of Bangui, affirmed: “Pineapple consumption is generally recommended during the second and third trimesters to relieve heartburn and acid reflux. Consuming it in moderation does not pose risks for pregnant women.”
Epiphanie Nambozouina, a presenter at Radio Ndekeluka, who is pregnant, shared: “I started eating pineapple in moderation at the beginning of my pregnancy, and now I am five months pregnant with no adverse effects. On the contrary, it gives me more strength; I don’t feel any pain, fatigue, or discomfort,” she testified.
Nutritional Benefits of Pineapple for Pregnant Women:
Further, we conducted a search using the keywords “benefits of pineapple and pregnancy” on Google. The results indicated: “Pineapple is a tropical fruit appreciated for its sweet-tart taste, but is it good for pregnant women? Generally, most fruits are safe to consume during pregnancy as long as they are properly cleaned, making them generally safe for the mother-to-be and the baby. Thus, eating pineapple early in pregnancy is not contraindicated.”
“Pineapple contains polyphenols, substances that can help strengthen the immune system of the mother-to-be and protect the baby against free radicals.” This information is available here.
It’s worth noting that pineapple is a fruit native to South America, discovered by Christopher Columbus upon his arrival in Guadeloupe in 1493. Rich in vitamins and minerals, this fruit is appreciated worldwide for its sweet and juicy taste.
Conclusion:
Moderate consumption of pineapple does not pose risks for pregnant women. However, during the early second and third trimesters, pregnant women can eat pineapple in moderation, but should limit it to one or two times per week.
This article was prepared by fact-checking journalist Chancella Doriane Pounoukoudou.
