Pregnancy is a special time for many women, and the journey to motherhood is filled with excitement, joy, and some confusion. One of the most important things for expectant mothers to consider is what they eat and drink during this critical period. Many foods and drinks are off-limits during pregnancy, as they can harm both the mother and the baby. In this article, we’ll explore some of the foods that are unsafe for pregnant women to consume.
Raw or Undercooked Meat and Fish
Raw or undercooked meat and fish can contain harmful bacteria, such as salmonella and E. coli, that can make you sick and potentially harm your baby. Raw or undercooked fish can also contain high levels of mercury, which can cause harm to your baby’s developing nervous system. To ensure that the meat and fish you eat is safe during pregnancy, make sure it is cooked thoroughly to the recommended temperature.
Raw Eggs
Raw eggs, or foods made with raw eggs, such as homemade mayonnaise or hollandaise sauce, can contain harmful bacteria called Salmonella. This bacteria can cause food poisoning, which can be especially dangerous for pregnant women and their babies. To stay safe, only eat eggs that have been cooked until the whites and yolks are firm.
Unpasteurized Dairy Products
Unpasteurized dairy products, such as soft cheeses like feta, Brie, and camembert, and unpasteurized milk, can contain harmful bacteria like Listeria. This bacteria can cause severe illness in pregnant women and can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. To stay safe, only eat dairy products that have been pasteurized, or made from pasteurized milk.
Liver and Vitamin A Supplements
Liver is high in vitamin A, which can be toxic in large amounts. Vitamin A supplements can also be harmful to your baby in large doses. To stay safe, limit your intake of liver and vitamin A supplements during pregnancy, and talk to your doctor about what is safe for you.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can lead to serious health problems for your baby, including birth defects, learning and behavioral problems, and fetal alcohol syndrome. The best way to protect your baby is to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy. If you have trouble quitting, talk to your doctor or a counselor for support.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that can affect your baby’s heart rate and increase the risk of miscarriage. To stay safe, it is recommended to limit your caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day during pregnancy. This is equivalent to one 12-ounce cup of coffee. It’s also important to be mindful of caffeine in other forms, such as tea, soda, and chocolate.
Herbs and Supplements
Herbs and supplements can have powerful effects on the body, and many of them are not safe to use during pregnancy. For example, evening primrose oil and gingko biloba can cause contractions and increase the risk of premature labor. St. John’s Wort can also interfere with the action of certain prescription medications. Before taking any herbs or supplements during pregnancy, talk to your doctor to make sure they are safe.
Sushi and Raw Seafood
Sushi and raw seafood can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can make you sick and harm your baby. They can also contain high levels of mercury, which can be dangerous for your baby’s developing nervous system. To stay safe, avoid eating raw seafood and sushi during pregnancy. If you crave sushi, opt for cooked options, such as tempura rolls.
Conclusion
Pregnancy is a special time that requires extra care and attention, especially when it comes to what you eat and drink. By avoiding the foods and drinks listed above, you can help protect your health and the health of your baby. If you have any concerns or questions about what you should and shouldn’t eat during pregnancy, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian.