Hailed as the King of Fruits in Southeast Asia, durian is either loved for its soft, creamy goodness or avoided because of its pungent smell.
Growing up in Southeast Asia, many of us enjoy eating this unique tropical fruit, but the moment we know we are about to become moms, we ask: Can I eat durian during pregnancy? Is it safe? What are the benefits? We answer all these questions and more for you.
Can I eat durian during pregnancy. The answer is yes, but in moderation.
Can I eat durian during pregnancy?
To moms-to-be with a craving for that sweet custardy taste of durian, fret not. It is actually safe to consume durian during your pregnancy – but in moderation.
On one hand, fresh durian is a rich source of nutrients: Iron, Riboflavin, Copper, Folate, Calcium, Fiber, Zinc, Carotene, Manganese, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Potassium, Niacin, Thiamin, Sugar, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Ascorbic Acid.
But, durian is also high in fat, sugar, and carbohydrate content, so perhaps avoid the tempting durian buffet, especially for those with gestational diabetes or a family history of diabetes.
How does durian affect the pregnant body?
The less than glamorous part that comes with being pregnant is the uncomfortable constipation a lot of women face. Durian’s high fibre content might help. A high in fibre diet will help to absorb water and food in the digestive system can regulate your bowel movements and treat any of your constipation woes. Dieticians from The Dietetic & Food Services in Changi General Hospital Singapore comment that durians meet 92 percent of the daily fibre requirement.
Some women in Thailand eat durian during their confinement period.
Can I eat durian after giving birth?
In Thailand, many believe that durian can help strengthen the body, so Thai women consume it after giving birth. However, it is always best to ask your health care provider whether or not it is safe for you to do so.
Some traditional beliefs claim that after eating this tropical fruit, drinking some coconut water, salt water, or other herbal drinks with cooling properties helps to counteract the “heatiness.” Another popular traditional practice is to drink some water straight out of the empty durian husk.
Click “Continue reading” for more on consuming durian.
Durian has a rich nutrient profile.
Can breastfeeding moms eat durian?
Some breastfeeding mothers swear that by eating durian, they are able to boost milk flow as well as produce thicker and creamier milk – but there is no solid scientific research to substantiate this. A possible explanation could be due to the durian’s rich nutrient profile, including Vitamin C, Iron, Potassium, Carbohydrate, Dietary Fibre, Protein, and Calcium.
As breastfeeding moms can burn up to 500 calories daily, this additional source of nutrients may be quite beneficial, however in moderation and if in doubt, remember to consult your health care provider. Do note that eating one small durian amounts to 885 calories already.
Some cultures believe that durian is an aphrodisiac.
Does durian affect the libido?
In Javanese culture, durian is believed to be a potent aphrodisiac which can increase libido, although there is little scientific evidence to prove this.
So, if parenthood has worn you down and you need some encouragement to get in the mood, skip the chocolates and feast on delicious durian instead. However, we recommend you brush your teeth before attempting to woo your partner to get rid of the less than amorous durian breath!
How does durian affect your energy levels?
Waking up in the middle of the night for feedings or diaper changes is bound to make you feel exhausted and wanting to reach out for that large cup of coffee. But did you know that durian is a great source of energy thanks to its high potassium levels, and is a good source of Vitamin C which can protect you from the common cold and help reduce stress and fatigue. How’s that for a caffeine-free pick-me-up?
Head on over to the next page to find out if eating durian affects fertility.
Durian contains Folic Acid and is high in fibre.
Can durian help fertility?
Women in some countries, such as India, believe that if they happily chow down on this unique fruit, they will boost their fertility and increase their chances of conceiving.
Some studies done on mice have also shown that eating durian can help improve the stamina and increase libido, although there is no further research on this. So if you’re trying to conceive, it won’t hurt to add this bittersweet fruit to your shopping list.
How do I get rid of the durian smell so it doesn’t transfer to my baby?
After indulging in some durian, you are usually left with the strong smell of durian which you might not want to transfer onto your little one.
So to get rid of the smell, try the traditional method of filling some water into the empty durian shells, using your fingers to scrape the inside and then rinsing your hands and mouth with that water. In just a few seconds, there will be no more lingering Eau de Durian!
Delicious durian cake truffles!
What are the best ways to indulge durian cravings?
If you have a durian craving and want to try something new and exciting, there are many desserts and snacks that use durian for a truly exotic treat. The modern twist of including this unique ingredient in desserts can be widely found in forms of milkshakes blended with durian, crepes with an oozing durian centre, durian-flavoured ice cream, cakes with a distinct durian taste, and bite-sized durian-filled macarons.
So go on, ask your husband to take advantage of the current durian season and pick up a delicious treat or two for you!
Republished with permission from: theAsianparent
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