Sep 02, 2024

Health and Me, Aarushi Bhadury

Nutrition And Pregnancy: Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

​High Mercury Fish​

Large marine fish can accumulate high levels of mercury, which can harm the nervous system, immune system, and kidneys, especially in children. Avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel, bigeye tuna, marlin, tilefish, and orange roughy.

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​Undercooked or Raw Fish​

Raw fish, especially shellfish, carries a high risk of bacteria and parasites. These infections can cause dehydration, weakness, pregnancy loss, and other health problems. Avoid raw fish, sushi, sashimi, ceviche, and uncooked smoked seafood.

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​Organ Meat​

Organ meats provide essential nutrients but can contain high levels of preformed vitamin A. Excessive vitamin A in the first trimester can lead to congenital malformations and pregnancy loss. Limit organ meat consumption to a few ounces per week.

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​Processed and Deli Meat​

Hot dogs, lunch meat, pepperoni, and deli meat can contain harmful bacteria. Cured meats are not cooked and may also have bacteria or parasites. Processed meats can be high in sodium and unhealthy fats. Avoid deli meats and ensure processed meats are cooked thoroughly.

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​Raw Eggs​

Raw eggs can contain Salmonella bacteria. Symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Avoid lightly scrambled eggs, tiramisu, raw batter, hollandaise sauce, and other foods containing raw eggs. Use pasteurized eggs or cook eggs thoroughly.

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​Raw Sprouts​

Raw sprouts, while often added to salads and sandwiches for a fresh crunch, can pose a significant health risk during pregnancy. The humid conditions necessary for sprouting can also create an ideal environment for harmful bacteria like Salmonella to thrive.

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​Soft Cheeses​

Soft cheeses, such as queso fresco, unless they are pasteurized, these cheeses may contain listeria, a bacteria that can cause severe illness and pregnancy loss. it's important to check the label for the word "pasteurized" to ensure the cheese is safe

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​Undercooked or Raw Meat​

Undercooked or raw meat can increase the risk of infections like Toxoplasma, E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella. Bacteria can threaten both your health and your baby's. Avoid raw or undercooked meat, especially cut meat, patties, burgers, minced meat, pork, and poultry.

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​Unpasteurized Dairy Products​

Unpasteurized dairy products can contain harmful bacteria. These infections can have life-threatening consequences for an unborn baby. Consume only pasteurized dairy products.

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​Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables​

Unwashed fruits and vegetables can be contaminated with bacteria and parasites. Toxoplasma can cross the placenta and cause vision loss and learning difficulties. Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables and peel or cook them before eating.

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