Consuming Durian Fruit in Pregnancy – Benefits and Precautions

Pregnant mothers are expected to be always careful about their dietary intake. Sometimes, mothers are ridden with frequent bouts of nausea, whereas, at other times, they fall prey to food cravings. Durian is one such fruit which many expecting mothers long to dig into. The consumption of durian in pregnancy is a topic of debate among expectant mothers and healthcare professionals. Many wonder, “Can pregnant women eat durian?” due to concerns about its pungent aroma and effects on digestion. Understanding the advantages and precautions associated with consuming durian during pregnancy is crucial for making informed dietary choices. This article explores the potential benefits and necessary precautions for expectant mothers considering adding durian to their diet during pregnancy.

What Is Durian Fruit?

Durian fruit is a tropical fruit found abundantly in South East Asia. This exotic fruit is large and has a husk covered with spikes. In complete contrast, its soft and tender flesh is succulent to eat. It is characterised by a strong odour that not many can tolerate. It is, interestingly, adored as the ‘King of fruits’. While some pregnant women love durian’s juicy deliciousness, others are revolted by its pungent smell.

Nutritional Value of Durian

Here’s the nutritional values of durian per 100 grams, based on data from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) (1):

Is Eating Durian Safe During Pregnancy?

Since durian is a highly nutritious fruit, there has always been much speculation about whether it can be consumed during pregnancy. In some Asian countries, durian is taboo for pregnant women as it is believed to create heat in the body and, therefore, can adversely affect the unborn baby (4). However, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that.

Can pregnant women eat durian? Yes! Eating durian during pregnancy’s first trimester can benefit expectant mothers as it contains vitamins, minerals, organosulphur, and tryptophan, which have antioxidant effects. Its antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties make it a safe bet for women during pregnancy. However, you must exercise caution, as overindulgence in durians may have harmful effects, too (3). Consult your doctor before you consume durian, mainly if you are eating it for the first time.

Health Benefits of Durian Fruit in Pregnancy

The durian fruit has many nutrients that are essential for our body. It has antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties and can benefit pregnant women. Here is a list of the health benefits of durian for pregnant women:

1. Rich in Dietary Fibre

Many pregnant women suffer from constipation due to hormonal changes in the body. Durian acts as a natural laxative and helps remove harmful chemicals from the gut (6). Its fibre content also protects the mucous membrane, reducing exposure to toxins.

2. Good Source of Folate

Durian is rich in folic acid, which can help prevent birth defects in newborns. One 100 gms of durian provides 9% of the daily requirement for folic acid.

3. Rich in Vitamin B

Durian is rich in vitamins like riboflavin, niacin and thiamine. It is beneficial for the overall health of pregnant women.

4. Rich in Antioxidants

Durian contains zinc, tryptophan and organo-sulphur, which have antioxidant effects (5). They protect the mother and the foetus from attack by pollutants and free radicals.

5. Rich in Vitamin C

Vitamin C not only helps the immune system, but it also helps the expectant mother and the unborn foetus absorb calcium and iron.

6. Packed With Minerals

Durian is rich in minerals like iron, copper, manganese, and magnesium (7), which makes it especially beneficial for pregnant women who require an increased blood supply for the growth of their foetus.

7. Prevents Acidity

It can help prevent acidity, as it has an antacid action due to its high water content.

8. Fights Depression

It may also help in fighting depression during pregnancy and after delivery (2).

How Much Durian Should a Pregnant Woman Eat?

The amount of durian a pregnant woman should consume can vary depending on factors such as her overall diet, health status, and tolerance to certain foods. Due to its high calorie and sugar content and pungent odour, which may trigger nausea or digestive discomfort in some individuals, it’s recommended that pregnant women enjoy durian as an occasional treat in small to moderate portions within a balanced diet.

Why Is Less Consumption of Durian Insisted for Pregnant Women?

While durian is a nutrient-rich fruit, it’s important to note that it’s also a high-glycemic food containing large amounts of sugar and carbohydrates. Two medium-sized seeds of a durian fruit can give you 60 calories. Therefore, overindulging in durian may lead to sudden spikes in blood glucose and potentially increase the foetus’s weight. This could pose a risk to natural delivery and may even be a significant contributor to childhood obesity.

Who Should Avoid Durian Fruit When Pregnant?

The high sugar and carbohydrate content in durian may harm some expectant mothers. Durian fruit is best avoided by:

• Pregnant women with gestational diabetes
• Pregnant women with a preceding history of gestational diabetes
• Pregnant women with a family history of diabetes
• Pregnant women who are obese
• Pregnant women who have been strictly advised against any extra weight gain other than what has been recommended
• Pregnant women in their third trimester

Durian fruit for pregnancy should be consumed cautiously, considering its nutritional value and potential impact on maternal health. It’s also important to consult your doctor before making any dietary changes.

FAQs

1. Can eating durian cause heartburn or indigestion during pregnancy?

While durian’s rich and fatty texture can lead to heartburn or indigestion, especially if consumed in large amounts, it’s crucial to remember that moderation is vital to safe consumption.

2. Are there any concerns about durian’s effects on blood sugar levels for pregnant women with gestational diabetes?

Due to its high sugar content, pregnant women with gestational diabetes should be cautious about consuming durian. To ensure durian intake remains within recommended limits, blood sugar levels should be monitored closely, and a dietitian should be consulted.

3. Does durian have any known interactions with medications commonly used during pregnancy?

Pregnant women should seek professional advice regarding any potential interactions between durian and medications they may be taking. While durian is generally not known to have significant interactions with common prenatal medications, consulting with a doctor is always the best course for personalised advice.

Durian and pregnancy raise questions about its safety and potential benefits for expectant mothers. The durian fruit is safe for pregnant women and helps overall growth and well-being during pregnancy. You can satisfy your craving for durian, but keep a watchful eye on the intake. Always consult and follow your doctor’s advice to avoid any unnecessary complications.

References/Resources:

1. Durian, raw or frozen; USDA; https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168192/nutrients

2. Chian. T. M, Asohan. S; Exploring the Nutritional Contents and Benefits of Durian (Durio zibethinus); Universiti Teknologi Malaysia; https://research.utm.my/ibd/project/exploring-the-nutritional-contents-and-benefits-of-durian-durio-zibethinus/

3. Nutrition of Pregnancy: Key Tips from a Obstetrician; Sunway Medical Centre;  https://www.sunwaymedical.com/en/blogpost/nutrition-of-pregnancy-key-tips-from-a-obstetrician; March 2023

4. Diana. R, Rachmayanti. R, Anwar. F, et al.; Food taboos and suggestions among Madurese pregnant women: a qualitative study; Journal of Ethnic Foods; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352618118301446

5. A Aziz. N. A, Mhd. Jalil. A. M; Bioactive Compounds, Nutritional Value, and Potential Health Benefits of Indigenous Durian (Durio Zibethinus Murr.): A Review; Foods; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6463093/; March 2019

6. Exploring the Unique Flavors and Health Benefits of Durian; Uyir; https://uyirorganic.farm/benefits-of-durian/; November 2023

7. Leontowicz. H, Leontowicz. M, Jesion. I, et al.; Positive effects of durian fruit at different stages of ripening on the hearts and livers of rats fed diets high in cholesterol; European Journal of Integrative Medicine; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1876382011001284 

Also Read:

Kiwi when Pregnant
Jackfruit in Pregnancy
Wood Apple while Pregnant
Is Eating Green Apples Good during Pregnancy?

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