Eating blackberries during pregnancy: Is it safe?

Blackberries are great foods but can pregnant women eat the fruit? This article enlists some health benefits and side-effects of this fruit, however, it is best to consult your doctor who will be the best guide when it comes to deciding if you should be eating blackberries during pregnancy and in what amounts.

Overall, blackberries are great for consumption during pregnancy unless otherwise recommended by your doctor.

Health benefits of blackberries during pregnancy

Blackberries are known to have several health benefits. Let us look at these in greater detail in this section.

• Since blackberries have lots of fiber, they can help keep your digestive system on track.
• Blackberries also ensure heart health. In fact, if the mother has a congenital heart illness, the consumption of blackberries can prevent the baby from acquiring it too.
• Blackberries can help ensure good eye health for you and your baby.
• As blackberries pack in lots of vitamin K, they can help keep excessive bleeding during pregnancy at bay.
• Blackberries are rich in several nutrients that can help keep cancer at bay.
• Blackberries also promote good blood circulation.
• They are also rich sources of folate and will thus keep birth defects at bay. Furthermore, blackberries can also reduce the chances of miscarriage in pregnant women.

Health risks associated with eating blackberries

• Blackberries should be properly washed before eating them as they can carry dirt and dangerous germs.
• Blackberries can also cause allergic reactions in some pregnant women so check with your doctor first before eating them.
• Blackberries can also cause diarrhea if over-consumed.
• If you have pancreatitis, are oxalic- intolerant or have dyskinesia, it is better to avoid consumption of blackberries during pregnancy.