Trying to get pregnant can be an exciting yet overwhelming journey, and if you’re anything like most of us, you want to do everything you can to give your body the best chance. One thing you might not have thought about? The fruits you’re eating! While fruits are generally good for you, some can actually interfere with your fertility. But don’t worry — you don’t need to give up on fruits altogether. It’s all about choosing the right ones and knowing which to avoid. 

In this blog, we take you through the fruits to avoid while trying to conceive, why it matters, and how to make sure your diet is helping and not hindering your fertility. 

What are the benefits of Fruits While Trying to Get Pregnant?

• Rich in Nutrients: Fruits provide essential vitamins and minerals like folate, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support overall reproductive health and enhance fertility.
• Support Hormonal Balance: Certain fruits, like berries and citrus, help regulate hormones, which is crucial for ovulation and menstrual cycle regularity.
• Boost Immune System: Fruits such as oranges, kiwis, and pomegranates strengthen the immune system, making it easier for the body to handle the demands of pregnancy and conception.
• Improve Egg and Sperm Quality: Antioxidants found in fruits help protect egg and sperm cells from oxidative stress, improving their quality and boosting chances of conception.
• Promote Healthy Weight: Low-calorie fruits like apples and pears help maintain a healthy weight, which is important for fertility. Maintaining a balanced weight supports hormone production and regular ovulation.
• Hydration: Fruits with high water content, like cucumber, keep the body hydrated, which is essential for overall reproductive health.

6 Fruits to Avoid When Trying to Get Pregnant 

When trying to get pregnant, every little choice can feel like an important one, especially when it comes to diet. While most fruits are packed with essential vitamins and nutrients, some may not be as fertility-friendly as you might think. Certain fruits can affect hormone balance, interfere with ovulation, or even disrupt your body’s natural processes. Let’s dive into six fruits you might want to avoid when trying to conceive and why it’s important to be mindful of them.

Pineapple

Pineapple is often seen as a tropical delight, but when it comes to fertility, it’s one fruit to approach with caution. Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which can have a blood-thinning effect. While this can be beneficial in some cases, for women trying to conceive, bromelain can interfere with the implantation process by affecting the lining of the uterus.

Bromelain is particularly concentrated in the core of the pineapple, so while the flesh might not have the same intensity, it’s still a good idea to limit its consumption when you’re trying to conceive. If you’re craving that sweet, tropical flavor, it’s best to enjoy pineapple in moderation and avoid it during the luteal phase (after ovulation and before menstruation), when implantation is most likely to occur.

Papaya

Papaya, especially when unripe, is another fruit that can pose a risk when trying to get pregnant. Unripe papaya contains latex, which has been known to induce contractions in the uterus. In some cases, consuming large amounts of unripe papaya can potentially cause a miscarriage, particularly in early pregnancy.

Even ripe papaya can affect fertility if consumed in excessive amounts, as it may impact hormone levels and interfere with ovulation. It’s best to avoid eating papaya if you are actively trying to conceive, especially if you’re eating it unripe. If you love papaya, be sure to enjoy it in moderation and only when it’s fully ripe.

Grapes

Grapes are sweet, hydrating, and packed with antioxidants, but they are also a fruit to be cautious of when trying to conceive. The problem with grapes lies not in the fruit itself, but in the pesticides often used during their cultivation. Grapes, particularly conventionally grown ones, can be heavily sprayed with pesticides, which have been linked to fertility issues.

The chemicals in these pesticides can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially affecting ovulation and the quality of sperm in men. If you love grapes, opt for organic versions or wash them thoroughly to remove as much pesticide residue as possible. It’s also a good idea to limit your intake of grapes and other fruits known for pesticide residues to minimize exposure.

Watermelon

Watermelon is a hydrating, refreshing fruit, but it’s not always the best choice when trying to conceive. This fruit is naturally high in sugar, which can cause insulin spikes in your body. High blood sugar and insulin resistance can negatively impact fertility by disrupting hormone levels and ovulation.

Excessive sugar consumption can also increase the risk of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can make it harder to conceive. While the occasional slice of watermelon is unlikely to have a significant effect, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Choose lower-sugar fruits like berries, apples, or pears as healthier alternatives for fertility-friendly snacking.

Cherries

Cherries are packed with antioxidants and nutrients, but they might not be the best choice when trying to conceive. Cherries, particularly when eaten in large quantities, are high in sugar. This can lead to insulin spikes, which can disrupt hormonal balance and negatively affect fertility. Elevated insulin levels are often linked to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can make it harder to conceive.

Additionally, cherries can also be grown with pesticide treatments, which may negatively impact fertility. To minimize potential risks, it’s best to limit your consumption of cherries or opt for organic versions. While cherries are delicious and nutritious, moderation is key when trying to conceive.

Bananas

Bananas are a popular, convenient fruit that many people enjoy daily, but they may not be the best option if you’re focused on fertility. Although bananas are rich in potassium and other nutrients, they are also high in sugar and can cause insulin spikes. For women who have conditions like PCOS or are dealing with insulin resistance, this can affect ovulation and hormone balance, making conception more challenging.

While an occasional banana can be a healthy snack, it’s important not to overconsume them when trying to conceive. Opt for fruits that are lower in sugar, like berries, citrus fruits, or apples, to support hormone balance and better fertility.

What Quantities of Fruits Should You Eat While Trying to Conceive?

• Aim for 2–3 servings of fruit per day, such as one medium-sized fruit, ½ cup of berries, or 1 cup of melon.
• Choose a variety of fruits to ensure a balance of different nutrients.
• Limit high-sugar fruits like mangoes and bananas, and opt for lower glycemic options like berries and apples.
• Pair fruits with proteins and healthy fats to maintain a well-rounded diet.
• Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust your fruit intake for balance and moderation.

Fruit to Include in Pre-Pregnancy Diet

When preparing your body for pregnancy, certain fruits can provide key nutrients that support fertility and overall reproductive health. Here are some fruits to include in your pre-pregnancy diet:

• Berries: Rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, berries help protect eggs from oxidative stress, support hormone production, and improve sperm quality.
• Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons): Packed with vitamin C, citrus fruits boost immunity, improve iron absorption, and support a healthy menstrual cycle.
• Avocados: A nutrient-dense fruit high in healthy fats, folate, and vitamin E, which promote hormonal balance and reproductive health.
• Pomegranates: Known for their antioxidant properties, pomegranates can improve blood flow to the uterus and support egg quality.
• Apples and Pears: These fruits are high in fiber, which supports hormone regulation and helps maintain a healthy weight, which is essential for fertility.
• Kiwi: High in folate, vitamin C, and fiber, kiwi helps boost immune function and supports healthy egg development.

Incorporating a variety of these fruits into your diet can help create a nutrient-rich environment for conception, supporting both fertility and overall health.

Navigating the path to conception is a personal journey, and the right diet can make all the difference. By choosing fertility-friendly fruits and maintaining balance, you’re giving your body the best chance for success.

If you’re looking for support on your fertility journey, seek expert guidance today.