Can Pregnant Women Eat Cantaloupe (Rockmelon)?
Popular summertime fruit cantaloupe is also known as rock melon, sweet melon, or muskmelon (muskmelon is also the category that cantaloupe belongs to).
Due to its link to outbreaks and recalls of foodborne illnesses, cantaloupe causes concern in many expectant mothers. Should you exclude cantaloupe from your pregnancy diet because of these worries, though?
There is nothing inherently dangerous about cantaloupe flesh, the orange-hued portion of the fruit that we typically consume. Many women are advised against eating cantaloupe because of food safety concerns rather than concerns about nutrition or vitamin toxicity.
Even while pregnant, cantaloupe can be a perfectly safe and healthy addition to your diet if cleaned and prepared properly.
Melons, such as cantaloupe, are susceptible to bacterial contamination, but washing and using safe preparation techniques can help reduce this risk while still letting you eat cantaloupe without risking your health during pregnancy.
Is it Safe to Eat Cantaloupe During Pregnancy:
Eating muskmelon while pregnant has significant benefits, and cantaloupe is a powerhouse of numerous nutrients essential for pregnancy. Eating muskmelon by itself is very safe during pregnancy. But sometimes a bacteria called Listeria can be found on the outside of muskmelon, and if it isn’t properly cleaned, it can get inside and seriously complicate pregnancy. For this reason, some people advise against eating muskmelon while pregnant. Muskmelon by itself has no negative effects on pregnancy.
Mercury-Heavy Fish
Lean protein and good fats can both be found in fish, but not all fish are created equal. Avoid people who are susceptible to high mercury levels. Mercury can be harmful to you and your baby.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against serving swordfish, tilefish, king mackerel, shark, and albacore or white tuna to expectant mothers.