For the safety and well-being of you and your baby, certain foods and drinks must be avoided during pregnancy. What an expecting woman consumes directly affects the health of the developing fetus. The Food and Drug Administration recommends pregnant women to take certain precautions to reduce the risk of food poisoning.
Alcohol and Caffiene
Pregnant women should completely eliminate alcohol from their diet. No levels of alcohol are safe during pregnancy. The consumption of alcohol during pregnancy can lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. This birth defect causes mental, behavioral and physical problems. The American Pregnancy Association recommends pregnant women to avoid drinking caffeine for a safe pregnancy. The consumption of caffeine during pregnancy can lead to a premature birth, miscarriage or a low birth weight. Instead, drink milk, juice and water for a beverage.
Seafood
Although pregnant women can eat most seafoods, some aren't safe due to the high mercury levels. The consumption of mercury during pregnancy can lead to brain damage and developmental problems in the baby. Avoid eating shark, tilefish, king mackerel and swordfish. The American Pregnancy Association recommends pregnant women avoid eating fish from local lakes and rivers including bluefish, salmon and trout. They are likely to be contaminated with industrial pollutants.
Liver
It's recommended to avoid eating liver during pregnancy; it contains high levels of vitamin A. Vitamin A is required for bone growth and development of the fetus. However, high intakes of this vitamin can harm the baby.
Listeriosis
Listeriosis is an infection caused by the listeria microbe. A pregnant woman should avoid the consumption of foods that potentially contain listeria. If a pregnant woman contracts listeriosis, it can lead to miscarriage, premature birth or stillbirth. So, avoid soft cheeses such as brie, feta and Camembert. Choose hard cheeses including mozzarella and cheddar, which are safer. Avoid refrigerated versions of pates and meat spreads. Wash fruits and vegetables before eating, because they may be contaminated with listeria. Only eat hot dog, luncheon or deli meats if they have been re-heated thoroughly. Choose pasteurized milk and drinks, rather than unpasteurized versions.
Undercooked Foods
Raw meat may contain bacteria that can harm the fetus. Pregnant women should ensure that fish and meat are cooked thoroughly. Undercooked eggs may be contaminated with salmonella. This can also harm your fetus. Make sure egg and egg products are not undercooked.
