During pregnancy, you require a nutritious and safe diet for you and your baby. The foods eaten by a pregnant woman directly affect the health and well-being of the developing fetus. Although you can eat a wide variety of tasty and healthy foods, you must completely avoid others.
Undercooked Food
Meat, poultry and eggs are important components of your prenatal diet, as they provide a rich source of protein and iron. However, eating undercooked meat, poultry and eggs can increase the risk of developing food-borne illnesses, such as toxoplasmosis, listeriosis and E.coli infections, which can be harm the baby. For example, if a pregnant woman contracts toxoplasmosis, the baby may develop mental retardation, seizures, or vision and hearing loss. Use a meat thermometer to make sure that these foods are cooked thoroughly. When reheating foods, make sure they are piping hot all the way through.
Seafood
Although most seafoods are safe to eat during pregnancy, some must be completely avoided. The American Pregnancy Association says to avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish during pregnancy. These seafoods contain high levels of mercury, which can cause the baby to develop brain damage and developmental disorders. Refrigerated versions of smoked seafood must be avoided. Eat canned versions, which are more safe.
Unpasteurized Food
Mayoclinic.com states that pregnant women should avoid soft cheeses, including Camembert, feta, Roquefort and brie. Soft cheeses are made from unpasteurized milk, which may contain listeria. This can increase the risk of a miscarriage, premature birth or death of the new born baby. To help boost your calcium intake, choose hard cheeses such as cheddar or Swiss.
Meat
To prevent contracting listeriosis during pregnancy, certain meat and meat products must not be eaten. FoodSafety.com states to avoid unpasteurized versions of meat spreads and pates during pregnancy. Choose canned versions for a safer option. The Food and Drug Administration advises expecting women to only eat bologna, turkey and salami if it has been reheated thoroughly.
Fruits and Vegetables
Avoid raw radish, clover and mung beans, as they may contain harmful bacteria, including E.coli and Salmonella. This can cause the baby to develop meningitis after birth. Avoid unwashed vegetables, as they may be contaminated with toxoplasmosis. Pregnant women should not eat chicken, ham or seafood salads that are made in a store. These salads may be contaminated with listeria.
