Can We Eat Jackfruit During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a phase when even the simplest decisions matter deeply. What you eat, drink, and feel can impact your baby's health and growth. In South Indian households, one fruit that brings both joy and doubt is the Jackfruit. Its sweet pods and strong aroma make it loved by many. But when you're expecting, you may wonder - "Is jackfruit during pregnancy safe?" or "Should I avoid jackfruit in pregnancy?"

This blog helps clear your doubts. We'll talk about the safety, benefits, and the right way to enjoy Jackfruit during pregnancy, and whether Jackfruit in pregnancy is a healthy choice for you and your baby.

What is Jackfruit?

Jackfruit, locally known as pala pazham, is a large tropical fruit that grows primarily in South India. It has a green outer skin with yellow pods inside. The fruit is sticky and sweet, and many people enjoy eating it raw or cooked. The seeds are also used in many home recipes.

Jackfruit is rich in fibre, natural sugars, vitamin C, potassium, and other nutrients. But since it is known to create heat in the body, many elders advise against eating Jackfruit during pregnancy. But should you avoid it? Not necessarily.

Can Pregnant Women Eat Jackfruit?

Yes, pregnant women can eat Jackfruit in small amounts. It is not a dangerous fruit. However, it should be consumed in moderation. Eating too much Jackfruit in pregnancy might cause gas or stomach discomfort in some people. It depends on your body type and how well you digest the fruit. If you are eating Jackfruit for the first time during pregnancy, try a small portion and see how you feel.

Is Jackfruit Good for Pregnancy?

Yes, Jackfruit is good for pregnancy when consumed correctly. It provides energy, aids digestion, and contains many essential vitamins. Let's examine the health benefits in more detail.

Jackfruit During Pregnancy: Is it safe?

Jackfruit is rich in several essential nutrients, including calcium, iron, potassium, and various vitamins. Furthermore, it has fewer calories and less fat. 100g of Jackfruit has nutrients in high quantities such as:

Jackfruit has phytonutrients, iron, folate, niacin, calories, and vitamin B in addition to all of these nutrients. All these nutrients help lower blood pressure while strengthening the immune system.

Nutritional Value of Jackfruit (per 100g of edible portion)

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Potassium	191.0 – 407.0 mg
Vitamin C	7.0 – 10.0 mg
Vitamin A	175.0 – 540.0 mcg
Protein	1.2 – 1.9 g
Carbohydrates	16.0 – 25.4 g
Calcium	20.0 – 37.0 mg
Magnesium	27.0 mg
Sodium	2.0 – 41.0 mg

When Should You Avoid Jackfruit During Pregnancy?

• 1. If You Have Gestational Diabetes
  Jackfruit has natural sugar. If you are diabetic or have high sugar levels, it's better to skip this fruit. Always check with your doctor before adding it to your diet.
• 2. If You Have Gastric Problems
  If you often feel bloated, have acidity, or stomach gas, Jackfruit may not suit you. It can be a bit challenging to digest for some women.
• 3. If Your Doctor Says No
  Always listen to your doctor. If they say not to eat Jackfruit due to any medical reason, please follow their advice.

Common Myths About Jackfruit During Pregnancy

Many old beliefs make Jackfruit look like a risky food. Let's see what is true and what is not.

• Myth 1: Jackfruit During Pregnancy causes miscarriage
  There is no scientific proof that Jackfruit causes miscarriage. Eating a small portion of ripe Jackfruit will not affect your baby negatively.
• Myth 2: Jackfruit During Pregnancy creates too much heat
  Yes, Jackfruit is considered a heat-producing fruit. But eating 2-3 pods will not harm you. You can balance it with curd or drink more water.
• Myth 3: Jackfruit seeds are unsafe
  Actually, jackfruit seeds are rich in protein and can be safely eaten after boiling or roasting. But they must not be eaten raw.

Ways to Eat Jackfruit During Pregnancy

Here are safe and healthy ways to eat Jackfruit while you are pregnant:

1. Ripe Jackfruit Pods
   Peel the fruit, take the yellow pods, remove the seeds, and enjoy it raw in small quantities.
2. Cooked Raw Jackfruit
   In South India, unripe Jackfruit is used in dishes like poriyal or curry. It tastes like meat and is good for digestion.
3. Jackfruit Seeds Sundal
   Boil the seeds, remove the skin, and make a sundal with mustard, curry leaves, and coconut. It's a protein-rich snack.

Avoid jackfruit chips, sweets, and deep-fried items. These are not healthy choices during pregnancy.

Simple Jackfruit Recipe for Pregnant Women

Jackfruit Seed Poriyal

Ingredients:

• 1 cup jackfruit seeds (boiled)
• 1 tsp oil
• ½ tsp mustard
• Few curry leaves
• 1 dry red chilli
• Grated coconut
• Salt, turmeric

Method:

1. Boil seeds until soft. Peel the skin and cut into small pieces.
2. Heat oil. Add mustard, red chilli, and curry leaves.
3. Add seeds, turmeric, and salt. Mix well.
4. Add grated coconut and switch off flame.

This dish is simple, tasty, and suitable during pregnancy.

Tips Before Eating Jackfruit

1. Always wash the fruit well.
2. Use oil in your hands while cutting to avoid stickiness.
3. Start with small quantities if you're eating it for the first time during pregnancy.
4. Avoid raw jackfruit seeds.
5. Consult your doctor for any health-related doubts.

Summary

Pregnancy is a beautiful adventure that is filled with great responsibility and love in addition to care. Your diet plays a huge role in your baby's health. Jackfruit offers energy, fiber, also important nutrients that support both mother and baby. Eating Jackfruit during pregnancy with moderation is not harmful because it has these benefits. While some may worry about eating Jackfruit in pregnancy, the truth is simple: listen to your body, eat mindfully, and stay informed.

Speak to your doctor in the event doubt ever arises. Given that each pregnancy is unique, just a qualified expert can guide you now upon your condition. If Mom feels good and is well, then her baby feels good and is well.

At Aval Clinics, we stand with mothers during every step of the way now - we advise them with trustworthiness, plan out their nutrition with a personal touch, and care for them with compassion all throughout your pregnancy. Our experts are always here for help if you wish to know more about safe foods during pregnancy or if you have questions about Jackfruit.