Eating only nutritional foods during pregnancy and avoiding foods, supplements and materials that could harm your baby is vital. The dietary choices you make during pregnancy affect the development and health of your baby. Before eating any questionable foods or taking supplements, you should talk to your doctor and follow the advice for healthy, safe eating that you receive.
Toxins
Fish and many types of seafood are loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, important for fetal development. Seafood also is an good source of low-fat protein. At the same time, many fish contain potentially toxic levels of mercury that can hamper neurological development in your baby. Fish that grow to very large sizes -—such as swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish and sharks—are the most likely to contain dangerous levels of mercury, according to the Mayo Clinic. Canned tuna also may prove harmful, but you can safely eat as much as 12 ounces a week. You should avoid raw seafood and shellfish and refrigerated smoked seafood. Cook fish to 145 degrees Fahrenheit internally and don't eat any mussels or clams that do not open during the cooking process.
Teratogens
The consumption of teratogens, or substances that can harm your fetus, is another nutritional consideration during pregnancy. You should avoid alcohol when you're pregnant because it increases the risk of miscarriage and premature delivery. Excessive alcohol intake during pregnancy can also lead to fetal alcohol syndrome, which causes mental retardation, facial deformities, low birth weight and heart disorders. Little information is available about the effects of various herbs on fetal development, so you should avoid herbal teas while pregnant to be safe. Caffeine is another ingredient in foods and beverages that can lead to problems during pregnancy. It can affect your baby's heart when it crosses the placenta. Caffeine may be related to an increased risk of miscarriage and impaired development.
Deficiencies
Because your body experiences a depletion of certain minerals and other nutrients when pregnant, you should supplement your diet to prevent nutritional problems, notes the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. During your pregnancy, your doctor will likely prescribe a multivitamin that contains extra iron and folic acid, which are critical nutrients during pregnancy. Iron is vital for carrying red blood cells throughout your body. Your body needs extra blood to support the growth of your baby. A folic acid deficiency can lead to neural tube defects in your baby.
Pica
For unknown reasons, many women crave nonfood items during pregnancy. This craving can lead to severe nutritional deficiencies. Called pica, the disorder may lead to cravings for items such as cornstarch, clay or ice. Eating these materials can diminish your nutrient intake. Tell your doctor if you have symptoms of pica.
Food Poisoning and Infections
Eating undercooked meat during pregnancy can increase your risk of developing bacterial infections and food poisoning. Uncooked processed meat such as bologna and hot dogs can cause a foodborne illness called listeria. Raw eggs and undercooked egg yolks may be contaminated with salmonella. Unpasteurized dairy products also can lead to toxic poisoning. Cheeses commonly made with unpasteurized milk include brie, bleu cheese, feta and camembert. Minimize your risk of food poisoning and bacterial infections during pregnancy by avoiding these foods.
