What Not to Eat When Pregnant in 2023
The Basics of Eating During Pregnancy
When you're pregnant, your body is changing and growing to accommodate your growing baby. Eating a healthy diet is essential to your health and the health of your baby. However, there are some foods that you should avoid while pregnant to help ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Raw, Undercooked, and Processed Meats
Raw, undercooked, and processed meats can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause food poisoning. This includes meats like hot dogs, deli meats, and smoked fish. To be on the safe side, it is best to avoid these types of meats when pregnant.
Raw Eggs
Raw eggs may contain salmonella bacteria, which can cause food poisoning. To ensure safety, avoid eating foods that contain raw eggs, such as cookie dough, homemade Caesar salad dressing, and Hollandaise sauce. Also, make sure to thoroughly cook all eggs before eating.
Fish High in Mercury
Fish can be a great source of protein and healthy fats, but some types of fish are high in mercury. This includes large fish such as swordfish, shark, and king mackerel. Eating these types of fish can increase the amount of mercury in your body, which can be harmful to your baby. To be safe, choose fish that are low in mercury such as salmon, trout, and tilapia.
Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables
Unwashed fruits and vegetables can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning. To avoid getting sick, always make sure to wash fruits and vegetables before eating. Peel fruits and vegetables when possible to reduce the risk of contamination.
Unpasteurized Dairy Products
Unpasteurized dairy products can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning. This includes soft cheeses, such as feta, brie, and blue cheese. To be safe, make sure to only eat pasteurized dairy products while pregnant.
Caffeine
Caffeine can increase your risk of miscarriage and low birth weight. It is best to limit your caffeine intake to no more than 200 mg per day. This includes coffee, tea, cola, and energy drinks.
Alcohol
It is best to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy. Drinking alcohol can cause birth defects, developmental delays, and other serious health problems for your baby.
Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements can contain ingredients that can be harmful to your baby. To be safe, avoid taking any herbal supplements while pregnant unless your doctor has recommended them.