There are a few foods that you should avoid when you’re pregnant, because they could pose a risk to you and your baby. These include:
- Raw or undercooked meat, poultry, and seafood: These foods can contain harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and Listeria.
- Unpasteurized milk and cheese: Unpasteurized milk and cheese can contain harmful bacteria, such as Listeria.
- Deli meats and hot dogs: Deli meats and hot dogs can contain Listeria, which can cause miscarriage and other serious health problems for your baby.
- Raw or undercooked eggs: Raw or undercooked eggs can contain Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning.
- High-mercury fish: Some types of fish, such as swordfish, shark, and king mackerel, contain high levels of mercury. Mercury can damage your baby’s developing nervous system.
- Alcohol: Alcohol can cross the placenta and damage your baby’s developing brain.
- Caffeine: Caffeine can cross the placenta and affect your baby’s heart rate. It is best to limit your caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day or less.
In addition to these specific foods, it is also important to avoid eating processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of junk food. These foods are not good for you or your baby, and they can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.
If you have any questions about what foods to eat and avoid during pregnancy, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can help you create a healthy eating plan that is safe for you and your baby.
