12 Foods to avoid during pregnancy
12 Foods to avoid during pregnancy
A pregnant woman should be careful while eating anything to ensure the proper health of her unborn baby inside the womb. A pregnant woman should avoid some of the certain foods that may cause miscarriage in early pregnancy.
Foods to avoid during pregnancy
The foods that may cause a miscarriage in early pregnancy or premature delivery are described below :1. High-Mercury Fish
However, fishes are considered very beneficial during pregnancy as they are nutritious and healthy but some of the fish contain high mercury content which causes harmful effects to an unborn baby's developing brain and nervous system. It's better to avoid high-mercury fish during pregnancy. The list of fish that contain high levels of mercury are given below :- King Mackerel
- Shark
- Swordfish
- Bigeye Tuna
- Shellfish
- Tilefish
- Marlin
2. Pineapple
Pineapple contains a type of proteolytic enzyme called Bromelain which softens the cervix to start contractions and may lead to miscarriage. So, it is best to avoid eating pineapple during the early stage of pregnancy.
(Also read: Risks of eating Pineapple during pregnancy )
3. Raw, Undercooked, or Processed Meat
The bacteria present in raw meat can pass on to the baby and leads to severe problems such as miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature labor. Always consume properly cooked meat during your pregnancy.
4. Deli Meat
Deli Meat may be contaminated with Listeria which has the ability to cross the placenta and can infect the unborn baby which leads to severe problems such as blood poisoning, infection, or even life-threatening. So, it's better to avoid deli meat during your pregnancy period.
5. Smoked Seafood
However, seafood is considered to be healthy, safe, and nutritious but all kinds of seafood are not safe to consume during pregnancy. Some seafood varieties are harmful to your unborn baby. Most of the seafood such as shellfish, sushi, prawns may be polluted with a bacteria called Listeria which can lead to preterm labor or miscarriage if consumed by a pregnant woman. Also, avoid consuming raw and smoked seafood as it is contaminated with various parasites that can cause infections in a pregnant woman. Always keep in mind to eat only well-cooked seafood. Seafood varieties that are harmful to consume during pregnancy are listed below :
6. Caffeine
Caffeine is a natural stimulant and diuretic that is found in tea, coffee, chocolates, cocoa, and soft drinks. Taking caffeine in a moderate amount is considered safe during pregnancy but excess intake of caffeine may lead to severe problems such as low birth weight, miscarriage, preterm birth, or stillbirth. It is advisable for a pregnant woman to limit the amount of caffeine intake.
7. Alcohol
Alcohol should be totally avoided during the pregnancy period because it is considered unsafe for an unborn baby. Consumption of alcohol during the pregnancy period may lead to developmental disorders.
8. Raw or Green Papaya
Unripe or Raw Green Papaya contains a high content of latex which may lead to uterine contractions. It also contains harmful enzymes such as papain and chymopapain which may lead to miscarriage and are also harmful to fetal's development. However, ripe papayas are considered safe and beneficial during pregnancy. Always keep in mind to consume ripe papayas during pregnancy and avoid consuming unripe or raw papaya.
9. Processed Junk Foods
Processed Junk Foods are unhealthy and low in nutrients as it has a high content of calories, sugar, and added fats which may lead to excess weight gain during pregnancy. Excess weight gain increased the risk of many complications such as heart diseases, gestational diabetes. So, it's best to avoid processed junk food during pregnancy.
10. Raw Eggs
Raw eggs can be contaminated with Salmonella which is an infection that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or cramps during pregnancy. In some rare cases, it can also lead to premature birth or stillbirth. Some food items that include raw eggs are listed below :
- Poached eggs
- Homemade ice cream
- Homemade Mayonnaise
- Egg Butter
- Salad Dressings
- Bearnaise Sauces
- Hollandaise Sauces
- Custards
However, most of the products which contain raw eggs are made with pasteurized eggs and safe to consume. Avoid consuming those products which are made with raw unpasteurized eggs.
11. Unwashed Vegetables
The unwashed vegetables may be contaminated with various bacterias and parasites such as toxoplasma, e-Coli, or listeria which are harmful and can cause infections in a pregnant woman. These bacterias also have a harmful effect on an unborn baby. To minimize the risk of infections during pregnancy always keep in mind to wash vegetables properly before consuming them.
12. Unpasteurized Milk
Unpasteurized milk may contain bacteria such as Campylobacter, e-Coli, listeria, or salmonella which has harmful effects on both the mother and her unborn baby. Always drink pasteurized milk during your pregnancy and avoid drinking Unpasteurized Milk.
Before following any pregnancy diet chart always talk to your doctor and tell them about your concerns. If your doctor allows you to add any new food to your pregnancy diet then add it to your daily diet without any doubt. We wish you a very happy and safe pregnancy. May God bless you and your child with good health.
Also, read other pregnancy-related articles :
Disclaimer: This content is intended for general information only and should not be used as the basis of patient treatment. The given content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or any diagnosis. Always consult a doctor for more information. Our website doesn't claim responsibility for this information.
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