Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy and Why

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility, especially when it comes to what you eat. While many foods are safe to eat during pregnancy, there are some that you should avoid. In this post, we'll explore some of the foods that pregnant women should avoid and why.

1. Raw or Undercooked Meats Raw or undercooked meats can be contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can cause foodborne illnesses. These bacteria can be especially dangerous during pregnancy, potentially leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in the newborn. Be sure to cook meats thoroughly, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Certain Types of Fish While fish can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, certain types of fish can contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to the developing nervous system of the fetus. Pregnant women should avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, and limit their consumption of albacore tuna to 6 ounces per week.

3. Raw or Undercooked Eggs Raw or undercooked eggs can be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause foodborne illness. Be sure to cook eggs thoroughly, until the yolks and whites are firm. Avoid foods that contain raw or partially cooked eggs, such as homemade Caesar salad dressing or raw cookie dough.

4. Unpasteurized Dairy Products Unpasteurized dairy products can be contaminated with bacteria such as Listeria, which can cause foodborne illness. Be sure to choose pasteurized milk, cheese, and other dairy products.

5. Deli Meats and Hot Dogs Deli meats and hot dogs can be contaminated with Listeria, which can cause foodborne illness. If you choose to eat deli meats or hot dogs, be sure to heat them until they are steaming hot.

6. Caffeine While some caffeine is safe during pregnancy, excessive caffeine intake can be harmful. Pregnant women should limit their caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day, which is roughly one 12-ounce cup of coffee.

In conclusion, pregnancy is a time to be mindful of what you eat, and there are some foods that pregnant women should avoid. Raw or undercooked meats, certain types of fish, raw or undercooked eggs, unpasteurized dairy products, deli meats and hot dogs, and excessive caffeine intake are all foods to avoid during pregnancy. By being mindful of what you eat, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.