What Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is undoubtedly the most exciting and the happiest moment in the woman’s life. A well balanced healthy diet is very important for the health of the pregnant lady.

The choice of the food during pregnancy not only affects the expectant mother but also the development of the fetus. Though most of the foods are healthy and fine to consume during pregnancy but few of them contains harmful chemicals and bacteria which could interfere with the fetal development and thus are considered unhealthy. Thus there are many food items which should be avoided during pregnancy.

Raw items and seafood including sushi and uncooked rare meats should be avoided during pregnancy as it can lead to high risk of salmonella poisoning and listeria.

Deli meats along with hot dogs should also be avoided as there is a possibility that deli meats may be contaminated with listeria bacteria and can even result in stillbirth and miscarriage. This type of food can be used by reheating until they are steaming hot. Since raw eggs contain salmonella thus they should be avoided along with mayonnaise, salad dressings and homemade ice cream made with raw eggs.

Refrigerated or smoked seafood should not be consumed due to listeria contamination. If they are contained in cooked, are canned or are shelf stable then they are safe to eat. Soft cheese like feta, brie, blue veined cheese and others should not be taken during pregnancy. If they are labeled pasteurized then they are safe and can be consumed. Besides these food items like alcohol, unpasteurized milk and juices and liver should also be avoided for having healthy pregnancy.