There are certain types of food that you should avoid when pregnant. While a small amount of some of these foods might be safe, it’s been proven that eating these foods in larger quantities could have lasting damage [...]]]>  

Are You Worried that Your Diet is Damaging to Your Baby? You May Be Right…

There are certain types of food that you should avoid when pregnant. While a small amount of some of these foods might be safe, it’s been proven that eating these foods in larger quantities could have lasting damage on your baby. If you want to stay as safe as possible during your pregnancy (especially if you are at high risk for miscarriages), you should avoid the following 4 foods.

#1 – Seafood

Seafood and pregnancy are a potentially lethal combination. While some might be okay, it’s best to avoid seafood when pregnant altogether. Some of the risks inherent in seafood are:

• Mercury- Many types of fish are susceptible to large levels of mercury, especially some that common in sushi. Tuna, shark, swordfish, tilefish, and mackerel are the worst offenders. The U.S. Food And Drug Administration (FDA) recommends you avoid these fish altogether when you are expecting, primarily due to their mercury content.
• Listeria – The U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) notes that this bacteria causes listeriosis. While uncommon, it’s more common for your baby to be infected by this disease if you are eating undercooked meats, particularly fish.
• Pollution – Many water sources are polluted by local industry, and this pollutants can make their way into fish. These pollutants are then transmitted to your baby during pregnancy.

#2 – Undercooked Meat

If you are accustomed to eating your steaks rare or medium, you will need to make some adjustments for the safety of your baby. Your body is undergoing hormonal changes, and bacteria are more likely to make their way into your baby’s bloodstream before your antibodies have a chance to attack them.

Bacteria can be killed by making sure your poultry and beef are thoroughly cooked. Always order your meals either well done or medium-well. You don’t want the bacteria from the local chicken farm making its way into your womb during pregnancy.

#3 – Unpasteurized Milk and Cheese

Dairy products are generally fine, but all dairy products must be pasteurized! Otherwise, the same bacteria that was in your undercooked meat can be transmitted through the dairy milk. Some cheeses in particular to avoid while pregnant (unless otherwise labeled):

• Feta
• Camembert
• Blue Cheese
• Queso dips

#4 – Caffeinated Drinks

Caffeine, while technically not a food, is present in most soft drinks and coffee. Drinking caffeine while pregnant is hazardous to your future child because it raises your baby’s heart rate to unnaturally levels.

Some studies have contradicted these results, but it’s very difficult to do testing on this subject. No one should be willing to endanger their child for a cup of coffee. It’s best to eliminate your caffeine intake during pregnancy.

Further Reading

If you enjoyed these tips, you’ll certainly enjoy “The Fit And Healthy Pregnancy Guide” which is a complete guide to pregnancy health.