Can I eat watermelon while pregnant?

Safe

Safe and helpful — hydrating, low calorie, high in vitamin C and lycopene.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Example, OB-GYN, MD Last reviewed: January 15, 2025Editorial process

What's safe

Fresh watermelon slices, cubes
Watermelon in fruit salad (freshly prepared)
Watermelon juice (fresh or pasteurized)
Frozen watermelon chunks (good for morning sickness)

What to avoid

Watermelon that has been cut and left at room temp > 2 hours (bacteria can grow on cut surfaces)
Pre-cut watermelon from a sketchy source with no refrigeration history

Sources & citations

Every verdict on this page is grounded in an authoritative source. If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].

Healthy Eating During Pregnancy (FAQ)
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Frequently asked questions

How much watermelon is too much?

There's no hard upper limit in pregnancy. Watermelon is about 92% water and has a moderate glycemic load, so people with gestational diabetes should still portion-control (1 cup ≈ 11 g carbs).

Track your meals with SafeBites

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More foods to check

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This page is informational only and is not medical advice. Always consult your OB-GYN, midwife, or registered dietitian about your specific pregnancy nutrition questions — particularly if you have gestational diabetes, food allergies, or other complications.