Pregnancy is a one of the most sensitive periods in a woman’s life. Therefore it is very important for pregnant women to eat a healthy diet, expecting mothers have to pay close attention to what they eat and make sure to avoid harmful foods and beverages.
High mercury fish:
As mercury is a highly toxic element. Since its found in polluted seas, large marine fish can accumulate high amounts of mercury. High mercury fish include: shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tuna. Consuming low mercury fish during pregnancy is very healthy, and those fish can be eaten up to 2 times per week. Fatty fish have a high in omega Three, fatty acids, which are important for your baby.
Under cooked or raw fish:
Raw fish and shellfish will be contaminated with microorganism and parasites. Some of these can cause adverse health effects and harm both the mother and the unborn baby. Therefore it is advised to avoid raw fish and shellfish for pregnant women.
Under cooked, raw and processed meat:
These contain harmful bacteria. As a general rule , meat should be cooked completely all the way through. Pregnant women should not consume processed meat products unless they have been reheated until steaming hot.
Raw eggs:
Raw eggs may be contaminated with salmonella, which can lead to sickness and an increased risk of premature birth or stillbirth. Pregnant women should always cook eggs thoroughly or use pasteurized eggs.
Organ meat:
Organ meat is a great source of iron, vitamin B12, vitamin A and copper toxicity, pregnant women are advised to limit their intake of organ meat to no more than once a week.
Caffeine:
Pregnant women should limit their caffeine intake to 200mg per day, which is about 2- 3 cups of coffee. High caffeine intake during pregnancy can limit fectal growth and cause low birth weight.
Raw sprouts:
Raw sprouts may be contaminated with bacteria inside seeds. Pregnant women should only eat cooked sprouts.
Unwashed products:
Fruits and vegetables maybe contaminated with harmful bacteria including toxoplasma. Its important to thoroughly rinse all of them before consuming.
Unpasteurized milk, cheese and fruit juice:
These products increases the risk of bacterial infection.
Alcohol:
Drinking alcohol can increases the risk of miscarriage, still birth and fetal alcohol syndrome. Pregnant women should not drink alcohol at all.
Processed junk foods:
Eating processed foods during pregnancy can increase your risk of excess weight gain, gestational diabetes and complications. This can have long term health implications for your child.
Proper food hygiene and preparation is always recommended. Especially during pregnancy.
