A healthy, well balanced diet is important throughout life and even more significant during pregnancy. A developing baby needs specific nutrients and vitamins to grow properly. In addition, certain types of food should be avoided because of the health risk to your unborn baby.
Raw Fish and Fish High in Mercury
Raw seafood such as oysters, clams or uncooked sushi should be avoided during pregnancy. They are potential sources of bacteria that may be harmful to a developing baby. According to MayoClinic.com, seafood is a good source of protein, iron and healthy fats, however some fish and shellfish contain dangerous amounts of mercury. High mercury consumption can harm a baby's developing nervous system. Avoid swordfish, shark, king mackeral and tilefish. Limit tuna consumption to 12 oz. per week or two weekly portions of shrimp, salmon, catfish, pollock or cod.
Unpasteurized Dairy and Juice
Low and non-fat dairy products are an important part of a pregnant woman's diet. The calcium is necessary for a baby's bone development. However, unpasteurized milk and cheese should be avoided. Such products may be carriers of listeria, a food-borne illness. Soft cheeses such as camembert, blue cheese, feta and brie should be clearly labeled as pasteurized. In addition, do not consume unpasteurized juice.
Herbal Tea
According to MayoClinic.com, herbal tea should be avoided unless approved by your physician. Large quantities of herbal teas may cause contractions or pre-term labor.
Undercooked and Raw Meat, Poultry and Eggs
The March of Dimes states that deli meats can cause food poisoning. All meat and poultry should be cooked fully before eating. Cooking hot dogs and deli meats can kill bacteria. Raw eggs may be carriers of the bacteria salmonella. Foods containing raw eggs like eggnog, hollandaise sauce or raw cookie dough should be avoided.
Caffeine
According to MayoClinic.com, caffeine can cross the placenta and affect your baby's heart rate. Excessive caffeine intake may be correlated with a low birth weight or an increased risk of miscarriage. Speak with your physician regarding safe caffeine intake.
Alcohol
There is no safe consumption of alcohol during pregnancy. Pregnant women who regularly drink alcohol are at risk for miscarriage and stillbirth. According to the March of Dimes, up to 40,000 babies are born with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders every year. Alcohol passes through the placenta to the fetus and may cause lifelong damage. It should be avoided throughout pregnancy.
