Eating a well-balanced diet during pregnancy is important for the growing baby. Certain foods a woman eats while pregnant may cause harm to the fetus. Knowing which food items can create risks for the mother and for the unborn child is important to keeping the baby safe. Some foods that are unsafe during pregnancy include foods that can cause a food-borne illness in the mother. Pregnancy weakens the mother's immune system--and the growing baby has an underdeveloped immune system--so the illness can cause an increased risk for serious complications.
High-Mercury Fish
Fish high in methylmercury metal can harm an unborn child's developing nervous system, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Large fish have higher levels of methylmercury because they live a longer amount of time and feed on organisms high in the toxic chemical. The fish pregnant women need to avoid completely include: shark, king mackerel, tilefish and swordfish. Other fish with lower amounts of methylmercury, including canned light tuna, salmon and catfish, are safe when eaten in moderation. A safe amount includes 12 oz. a week of low-mercury fish, according to the FDA.
Deli Meat
Refrigerated deli meats and hot dogs may contain a harmful bacteria called Listeria monocytogenes. Most individuals who consume these bacteria may get slightly ill or not experience any symptoms associated with the condition. Pregnant women, however, have a greater risk for developing listeriosis after eating the contaminated foods. Completely avoiding the meats is not necessary, though, because heating deli meats and hot dogs until they are steaming helps destroy the harmful bacteria, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Unpasteurized Foods
Pregnant women need to avoid unpasteurized cheeses, milk and fruit juices. The pasteurization process removes bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella from these products. Common unpasteurized soft cheeses include feta, brie, blue cheese and Mexican-style cheeses, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Undercooked Foods
Undercooked meats, fish and raw sprouts may cause harm to a pregnant woman. Undercooked poultry, meats and eggs may contain bacteria. Cooking the foods until they reach the appropriate temperature on a meat thermometer helps decrease the chance of ingesting the harmful bacteria. Raw fish or seafood, like sushi and oysters, may contain bacteria or parasites. Eating these foods undercooked may make a pregnant woman ill. Raw sprouts, including alfalfa sprouts and radish sprouts, can harbor bacteria even after washing. Washing raw fruits and vegetables under running water helps remove bacteria from the surface of the skin and decreases the risk of getting sick.
