When you’re pregnant, you need to be careful about the foods you eat—especially if it’s your first pregnancy and you don’t know what to expect. There are certain foods that can harm both you and your baby, and some others that could cause problems later in your pregnancy or labor. This comprehensive guide to foods to avoid during pregnancy will help you understand which foods are dangerous, what kind of dangers they pose, and when in your pregnancy these dangers become significant. It also includes some helpful tips about eating well during pregnancy so that you have the nutrients and energy necessary to help create a healthy baby.
What is a Toxic Food?
A toxic food is any food that contains chemicals or other substances that can be harmful to your health. There are many different types of toxic foods, and they can be found in both processed and unprocessed foods. Some of the most common toxins in food include pesticides, herbicides, and growth hormones.
Pregnant women should avoid eating foods that contain these toxins because they can cause birth defects, miscarriages, and other health problems.
There are many healthy pregnancy foods to eat instead of toxic foods.
Processed Meat
Pregnant women should avoid processed meats as they often contain high levels of sodium and other preservatives which can be harmful to both the mother and child. Instead, opt for fresh, whole foods that are rich in nutrients and free from harmful chemicals. Some pregnancy foods to eat include lean protein, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and dairy.
Alcohol
It's best to avoid alcohol altogether when you're pregnant. Alcohol can pass through the placenta and reach the baby, which can lead to developmental problems and birth defects. Plus, drinking alcohol during pregnancy can increase your risk of miscarrying or having a stillbirth. If you do choose to drink, limit yourself to one drink per day.
Carbonated Drinks
Consuming carbonated drinks during pregnancy can lead to gas, bloating, and even indigestion. So it's best to avoid them altogether. If you are craving something fizzy, opt for sparkling water instead.
Unpasteurized Products
You should avoid unpasteurized dairy products, juices, and honey during pregnancy. These products can contain harmful bacteria that can make you sick. You should also avoid undercooked meat, poultry, and fish. These foods can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning. If you are unsure if a food is safe to eat during pregnancy, ask your doctor or a registered dietitian.
Fish and Seafood
There are many different types of seafood, and each has its own set of guidelines. In general, however, you should avoid eating fish during pregnancy. This is because fish can contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to both you and your baby. Seafood that is lower in mercury, such as shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock, and catfish, is generally considered safe to eat during pregnancy.
Eggs (in some cases)
It’s important to remember that while you might be avoiding certain foods during pregnancy, you still need to make sure you’re getting enough nutrients. So, be sure to speak with your doctor about what pregnancy foods to eat. That said, here are some general guidelines for what foods to avoid during pregnancy.
Certain types of fish that may contain high levels of mercury should be avoided during pregnancy, including shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish.
Peanuts and Tree Nuts (in some cases)
Peanuts and tree nuts are a common allergen, and while most people are able to eat them without issue, pregnant women should avoid them. Peanuts and tree nuts can cause anaphylactic shock in some people, and while this is rare, it's better to be safe than sorry. If you're allergic to peanuts or tree nuts, be sure to avoid all products that contain them, as well as any foods that may have been contaminated with them.
Soft Cheeses (in some cases)
While unpasteurized cheeses can harbor dangerous bacteria, pasteurized varieties are generally safe. However, there are still a few cheeses you should avoid during pregnancy, as they may contain high levels of listeria. These include brie, feta, queso blanco, queso fresco, panela, camembert, and blue-veined cheeses. If you're unsure whether a cheese is safe, check with your healthcare provider.
