Pregnancy is a beautiful journey of creating new life, but it also comes with dietary adjustments to ensure the health of both mother and baby. While there’s a world of delicious foods to enjoy, certain items can pose risks. Those foods should be avoided during your pregnancy. A good gynecologist in South Delhi can help you prepare a list of such food items. However, here are some foods we have searched for that should be avoided during pregnancy.
What Not to Eat During Pregnancy?
Fish with High Mercury
Mercury, a heavy metal, can harm a developing baby’s nervous system. Do not eat fish high in mercury like king mackerel, shark, swordfish, and tilefish. Opt for safer options like salmon, shrimp, pollock, and cod, limiting intake to two to three servings per week.
Raw Fish and Shellfish
Raw fish and shellfish can harbor bacteria and parasites harmful to expecting mothers and their babies. This includes sushi, sashimi, ceviche, and raw oysters. Cooked versions of these foods are generally safe.
Undercooked Meat and Eggs
Similar to raw fish, undercooked meat and eggs can harbor harmful bacteria like salmonella. Ensure all meat (including poultry) is cooked thoroughly until there’s no pink in the center. Eggs should be cooked firmly with solid yolks and whites. You can consult with a pregnancy doctor in South Delhi to know the serious side effects of the condition.
Unpasteurized Dairy Products
Unpasteurized milk and milk products like cheese haven’t undergone a process to eliminate harmful bacteria. This can lead to infections like listeria, which can be serious for pregnant women. Stick to pasteurized dairy products for safety.
Soft Cheeses
Cheeses like feta, brie, camembert, gorgonzola, and blue cheese are often made with unpasteurized milk and should be avoided. Choose harder cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella that are pasteurized.
Deli Meats and Hot Dogs
Deli meats, hot dogs, and sausages can support the growth of listeria bacteria due to storage and processing methods. While the risk is low, it’s best to avoid them or heat them until steaming hot before consumption. However, whether you should eat such foods or not must be consulted with a good gynecologist in South Delhi.
Sprouts
Raw sprouts like alfalfa, clover, and mung bean can grow harmful bacteria like E. coli. Avoid raw sprouts entirely and opt for thoroughly cooked varieties.
Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables
Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly removes dirt, pesticides, and bacteria that can be harmful during pregnancy.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and added sugars. While an occasional indulgence is okay, focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods for optimal nutrition.
Excessive Caffeine and Alcohol
Limit caffeine intake from coffee, tea, and soda to 200mg per day. Alcohol consumption should be completely avoided throughout pregnancy.
For more details on the diet during pregnancy, consult Dr. Ruchi Tandon, an experienced pregnancy doctor in South Delhi.