Durian is a popular fruit that is enjoyed by people of all ages and genders in Southeast Asia. However, one question that is frequently asked is whether or not pregnant women can eat durian. There are various myths that suggest that it is not safe, but is there any truth to these claims?
The good news is that it is actually safe for pregnant women to consume durian – but in moderation. There is no scientific evidence to support the notion that durian is a “heaty fruit” that could affect the unborn baby. On the other hand, there is also no conclusive research to prove that durian is beneficial for pregnant women. Therefore, whether or not to consume durian during pregnancy depends on individual health.
However, if the expecting mother has been diagnosed with gestational diabetes or has a family history of diabetes, she should avoid durian during pregnancy. This is because durian contains high levels of fat, sugar, and carbohydrates, and two medium-sized seeds of durian contain about 60 calories. Furthermore, durian has a high glycemic index, which can cause spikes in blood glucose levels.
Despite its reputation as the King of Fruits, durian is still a good source of nutrition for pregnant women. It is rich in folic acid, which can help prevent birth defects in newborns. Just 100 grams of durian can provide 9% of the daily requirement of folic acid.
Constipation is a common issue for pregnant women due to hormonal changes in their bodies. Fortunately, durian is a good source of dietary fiber, which can prevent constipation during pregnancy. The fiber content also helps protect the mucous membrane by reducing exposure to toxins and removing harmful chemicals from the digestive system, thereby improving digestion and overall health.
Durian also contains a variety of vitamins, including vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can improve the immune system of expecting mothers. It also aids in the absorption of calcium and iron, which are beneficial for both the mother and the growing fetus.
In conclusion, consuming durian in moderation during pregnancy is generally safe. However, expectant mothers should still limit their consumption to avoid any possible negative effects such as having a larger baby or childhood obesity. A balanced diet is always the best approach for overall health and wellbeing during pregnancy.