African star apple, popularly known as Agbalumo, is a famous fruit in Nigeria and some parts of West Africa. As a seasonal fruit, rich in essential nutrients like fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, it is loved for its unique taste (especially when properly cultivated), and cultural significance.

It’s a common belief that consuming agbalumo during pregnancy can lead to colic in babies. This blog post will explore the possibility of this being a fact or another pregnancy myth.

What is colic?

Colic is a situation or condition common among babies, characterized by excessive crying and fussiness, typically occurring within the first few weeks after birth. 

The exact cause of colic is not fully known or understood, but limited research on this subject has provided few liable causes of colic in babies. 

Causes of Colic

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: Excess gas, indigestion, or any other form of gastrointestinal discomfort may be a contributing factor to colic in some babies.

• Developing digestive system: As the hands and legs of babies grow with time, similarly the digestive system is developing with time. This is a reason why certain foods are prohibited for their consumption. When a baby experiences even the slightest form of indigestion, it could lead to colic.

• Sensitivity to foods: Babies are quite sensitive in their formative years, they may be allergic to some meals consumed by the mother during breastfeeding. 

Knowing the precise cause of colic could be challenging, as it varies among babies.

Health benefits of agbalumo during pregnancy

To that end, every African pregnant woman can have the privilege of experiencing the most fabulous effects of eating star apples. 

There are several reasons why agbalumo is considered the best fruit for pregnant women:

• Heart health: The consumption of star apples is beneficial for the heart. It reduces blood sugar and cholesterol levels in the body system, which leads to better health and helps prevent potential cardiac diseases.

• Best anti-oxidant: The natural elements in agbalumo serve as antioxidants; they guard the body against free radicals.

Myth or Fact: Agbalumo causes colic in babies

The belief that consumption of agbalumo during pregnancy causes colic in babies is more of a myth than a fact. There is no scientific evidence linking the consumption of agbalumo to colic in infants. Colic is a condition with several potential causes.

As a pregnant woman, you should maintain a balanced diet that comprises of fruits and vegetables to ensure adequate nutrition for both you and your baby.

It is an idea more rooted in cultural beliefs than scientific facts that consuming agbalumo during pregnancy causes babies to get colic. 

Pregnant women can eat agbalumo as a fruit when taken moderately. If your baby has signs of colic, it is important to seek medical attention to find out what is causing it and how it can be treated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can a pregnant woman eat agbalumo?

Pregnant women can enjoy agbalumo as part of their balanced diet. It provides essential nutrients that could be of benefit to both the mother and the baby.

1. Will agbalumo cause colic in babies?

Individual sensitivity may vary, so there's no scientific or conclusive evidence linking the consumption of agbalumo during pregnancy to colic in babies. 

1. Can I eat agbalumo when breastfeeding?

Agbalumo is safe for breastfeeding mums to consume. 

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