Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy
Author: Shannon Miller Lifestyle
What not to eat when pregnant?
Making healthy food choices can be a major stress during pregnancy.
Your biggest concern when planning your next meal during your pregnancy, of course, is what is best for the baby. You know that your baby needs vitamins, minerals, protein, and fat in order to grow strong and healthy, but beyond that, what is really recommended and what could actually endanger you and your child?
What about eating fish while you are pregnant?
You have read and your doctor probably mentioned that fish contain healthy vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids that help your baby’s brain develop. You’ve probably also heard that mercury, a brain damaging metal, could be present in your fish. So, what do you choose?
Do NOT consume the following fish while you are pregnant:
- Swordfish
- Shark
- King Mackerel
- Tilefish
- raw or undercooked fish of any kind
You MAY consume the following seafood in moderation (1-2 times per week) while you are pregnant:
- Shrimp
- Crab
- Canned light Tuna (limit Albacore Tuna, Chunk White Tuna and Tuna steak to no more than 6 ounces, or 170 grams, a week)
- Salmon
- Pollock
- Catfish
- Cod
- Tilapia
You know that you need more sources of protein, of course, such as chicken breast and eggs. Make sure they are completely cooked before consuming. Do not eat desserts that have raw eggs in them, such as tirimasu.
In the United States, most cheeses must be pasteurized in order to be sold in markets. Some high-end grocers and market places may include imported cheeses, which could be unpasteurized. Check the label for the term “pasteurized” before purchasing.
Any fruits and vegetables should be washed again at home, by you, no matter what the label says. Use a little vinegar in water to kill germs and diminish pesticides on produce.
How much coffee can I have while pregnant?
Caffeine in excess could affect the baby’s heart rate. Doctors recommend no more than 200 mg of caffeine in a day. This would be equivalent to about 16 ounces of coffee. However, if you drink any sodas or teas, or if you eat chocolate, you must take that into consideration as well. It is advised to stay on the low side of caffeine, consuming only what you really need.
What about drinking specialized teas while I am pregnant?
Different teas affect your body in different ways, so they affect the baby in different ways. Do not drink any kind of tea that was not specifically recommended by your doctor.
Finally, a word about drinking alcohol while you are pregnant.
There is no safe amount of alcohol to drink during pregnancy. The days are gone when the doctor told the mother that “a glass of wine won’t hurt.” We don’t know that for sure, so it is advised to avoid alcohol.
Not sure what to choose at the grocery store? What is safe? What is not? Try the Mayo Clinic Windows app for a Healthy Pregnancy for an easy guide to check before you buy!
SML Resource: The Mayo Clinic