Cherries

Cherries are completely safe to eat during pregnancy and are among the most antioxidant-rich fruits available. They contain vitamin C, potassium, fibre, and anthocyanins — the pigments that give them their deep red colour and which have anti-inflammatory properties. Cherries also contain melatonin, which may support sleep quality — useful during pregnancy when sleep disturbances are common. Fresh cherries are safe, as are frozen cherries, dried cherries, and cherries in juice. Maraschino cherries (the bright red jar variety used as garnishes) are safe in small amounts, though they are highly processed and contain significant sugar. Cherry juice is safe as long as it is pasteurised — sour cherry juice in particular has gained interest for its sleep and anti-inflammatory benefits. As with all fresh fruit, wash cherries before eating. Remember to remove the stone before eating or serving — cherry stones are a choking concern, particularly if eating carelessly. Cherry stones also contain a compound (amygdalin) that converts to cyanide if ground or chewed, but this is only a concern if you are deliberately crushing and eating large numbers of stones, which is not a normal eating habit. Simply eating the flesh of the cherry is completely safe.