Nutritious food is essential for pregnant women. Fruit, vegetables, minerals and protein are all needed for the baby's formation and development. But a mother's diet during pregnancy directly affects the unborn child's health, so some fruits, though nutritious, can be risky to eat during pregnancy.

For generations in this country, pregnant women have been advised by older women at home on what to eat and avoid. Some of that advice is superstition, but some is knowledge drawn from experience. Thanks to advances in science, we now know clearly which advice should be followed and why. Here are the fruits pregnant women should not eat.

Ripe papaya contains a substance called latex that can cause uterine contractions, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. The papain enzyme in papaya can also destroy cells of the placenta, which is harmful to the foetus.

Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, which can soften the cervix and trigger contractions. Eating pineapple in the first three months carries a risk of miscarriage, though a moderate amount may be eaten late in pregnancy on a doctor's advice.

Grapes contain a compound called resveratrol, which can be toxic during pregnancy. Black grapes in particular are best avoided, as they can raise body temperature and harm the unborn child. Grapes also often carry high pesticide levels, which is risky for mother and baby.

Tamarind is high in vitamin C but acidic. Eating too much during pregnancy can increase acidity and vomiting, and its laxative effect can cause diarrhoea or dehydration, which are harmful in pregnancy.

Lychee is high in sugar and heat-producing elements, which can raise blood sugar during pregnancy. It is also a "hot" fruit that raises body temperature and may harm the unborn child. Some studies have also found a link between lychee and miscarriage.

So consult a doctor before eating any fruit during pregnancy. Wash fruit well before eating to reduce the pesticide risk. No fruit should be eaten to excess, and take special care in the first three months.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.