Eating papaya during pregnancy is a debatable matter. No research shows any relationship between papaya and miscarriage. However, traditionally, women were discouraged to eat papaya during the nine months of pregnancy. Some pregnant women skip papaya all through, while some avoid papaya only in the first trimester. Most believe that unlike unripe papaya ripe fruit is not harmful.
Why papaya is considered harmful during pregnancy?
Papaya is considered a hot food. It means papaya can produce heat in your body. Excessive heat-causing foods should be avoided during pregnancy. Semi-ripe or unripe papaya is rich in a substance called latex. Studies reveal concentrated latex can cause uterine contractions. This is why, traditionally, papaya is associated with miscarriages and premature labor. However, there is no scientific research to prove that papaya raises the core body temperature to such an extent that it can cause harm to your unborn baby.
Things to keep in mind about eating papaya during pregnancy
Ripe papaya is considered safe during pregnancy. It is better to avoid unripe papaya during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. Unripe papaya contains latex and papain which produces heat in the body that can cause uterine contractions and eventually lead to miscarriage or premature labor.
If you wish to eat papaya, keep the following things in mind:
- Only eat ripe papaya
- Only eat fresh papaya
- Clean the papaya nicely before eating
- Do not eat the skin of the papaya
- Avoid papaya that has brown or black spots
- Avoid papaya that is still slightly greenish
- Avoid if there is a soft sunken area or mold patches
- Do not consume the seeds of papaya
- Do not eat the fruit directly out of the skin
- Eat papaya in moderation
Papaya is a good source of vitamins C and A. It is also a good source of folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and fiber. Papaya also contains beta-carotene and choline. Papaya can help prevent constipation. A smoothie made of papaya, milk, and honey is a good source of nutrients for nursing mothers. Consult with your doctor about safe and unsafe food options during pregnancy.
