Pregnancy is a time when many women are anxious about what they should be doing and not doing. Foods to eat and foods to avoid can be an issue. The American Pregnancy Association advocates a healthy and balanced diet that consists of servings from each of the food groups. But it's also important to know the foods that could cause problems. Some foods, when eaten during pregnancy, can lead to poisoning, bacterial infections, miscarriage, low birth weight, birth defects and even death.
Soft Cheeses
Many soft cheeses are made with unpasteurized milk and pose the threat of listeria or E.coli if consumed during pregnancy. The Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding brie, feta, camembert, blue cheeses and Mexican cheeses including queso fresco and queso blanco. But if the label clearly states that the cheese is made with pasteurized milk it is safe to consume. Hard cheeses such as cheddar and Swiss are better options until the baby is born.
Raw Meats
Undercooked or raw meats should not be eaten during pregnancy. They can lead to bacterial or viral illnesses, such as salmonella and listeria that can compromise the health of the mother and her unborn baby, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pregnant women should avoid sushi made with raw fish and undercooked hamburgers, steaks and fish. Meat should be ordered well done throughout a pregnancy, and smoked meats should be avoided unless they have been cooked before eating.
Fish High in Mercury
Many types of fish contain high levels of mercury, which can damage the nervous system of a growing baby, according to the Mayo Clinic. Avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish. But limited consumption -- two servings per week -- of some fish is OK and even encouraged, as it facilitates the baby's brain development. Those fish include tuna, shrimp, salmon, catfish and cod.
Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables
According to the American Pregnancy Association, failing to thoroughly wash produce before eating it can cause illness, because it may contain bacteria. Washing fruits and vegetables with mild soap and water renders them safe to eat, and they should be part of a healthy and balanced diet during pregnancy. Raw sprouts should be avoided during pregnancy because they can lead to E. coli or salmonella poisoning.
Alcohol
Consuming alcohol during pregnancy can result in miscarriage or stillbirth, reports the Mayo Clinic. No amount of alcohol has been found to be safe during pregnancy, so it should be avoided. In addition, alcohol use can lead to deformities, heart problems, low birth weight, mental retardation and fetal alcohol syndrome. A woman who needs help refraining from drinking while she is pregnant should contact her doctor for resources to assist her.
