10 Foods To Avoid When Pregnant

For many women, pregnancy is an excuse to eat whatever they want, whenever they want, without regard for diets, but when it comes to some foods, this approach can be dangerous. Doctors recommend that pregnant women avoid or limit certain foods during their pregnancy, due to increased risk of illness and potential harm to their baby. Though a variety of foods, from all the food groups should be included in a pregnancy diet, the following foods should be restricted when a woman is expecting.

Mercury Laden Fish - Types of fish that are known to have high levels of mercury should be completely avoided during pregnancy. This includes swordfish, shark, king mackerel, and some types of tuna, as well as many of the types of fish that are commonly found in sushi. The mercury that is contained in the flesh of these fish has been shown to cause brain damage and increase the occurrence of developmental delays in babies and children.

Raw or Undercooked Meats - Pregnant women are more apt to fall ill from the bacteria that is carried in meat or poultry then an average person might be. By assuring that meats and poultry are cooked thoroughly, women lessen the risk of developing salmonella, toxoplasmosis and coliform, which all can prove harmful to a developing fetus, due to the side effects of these illnesses.

Certain Seafood Types - While there are some seafood types that are acceptable to eat while pregnant, there are others that need to be avoided at all costs. Consuming any raw seafood or fish is never recommended while pregnant. When selecting fresh fish, be sure that it has not come from a contaminated water source, as pollutants can cause problems for pregnant mothers. Additionally, smoked seafood that is not canned should be avoided as it could carry listeria.

Deli Meats - Women who are pregnant are advised not to eat sliced deli meats and cheeses, such as ham, turkey and bologna. Deli meats have a high likelihood of cross contamination and could carry listeria, which has proven deadly to unborn babies. While the risk is low, many doctors recommend that their patients do not eat sliced lunch meats or that they reheat the meats until they are steaming hot to kill bacteria, before consumption.

Raw Eggs - Recipes that contain raw eggs should not be used during pregnancy. Raw eggs can carry salmonella, which is a dangerous bacteria to contract at any time. When pregnant, the accompanying illness can cause serious pregnancy complications.

Unpasteurized Dairy Products - Be sure to check that all milk and dairy that you consume has been pasteurized. When dairy is left unpasteurized, it could contain listeria. Though most dairy is pasteurized before distribution, products that come from organic farms and other sources may not have been processed and could pose a serious risk to an unborn baby.

Soft Cheeses - Certain types of soft cheese should not be eaten during pregnancy. Imported cheeses, such as Brie, Feta, Gorgonzola, Queso Blanco, and Camembert are generally not pasteurized can may contain listeria, which can result in illness or even miscarriage.

Unwashed Vegetables - While vegetables are an important part of a pregnant woman's diet, unwashed vegetables can be dangerous. Be sure that all fruits and vegetables are thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt and bacteria that could be left on the surface. Soil that contains toxoplasmosis can transfer the bacteria to the plants, but it is easily removed with a thorough washing.

Caffeine - Pregnant women should cut back on their consumption of caffeine, particularly in the first trimester. There have been studies that have shown a correlation between caffeine intake and increased risk of miscarriage in the earlier weeks of pregnancy.

Alcohol - Although some claim that the occasional alcoholic beverage is acceptable during pregnancy, there has been no research that has established a safe level of alcohol consumption when pregnant. One of the effects of alcohol on an unborn baby is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, which can cause serious birth defects, brain damage and other problems in infants.

While this list may seem somewhat extensive, there are plenty of foods to include in your meals that are perfectly safe for you and your baby. If you have concerns about a specific type of food, be sure to speak with a medical professional. Although it can be tough to forego your favorite foods for nine months, the deprivation is well worth the reward of a happy, healthy pregnancy and baby.