There are many foods that can affect your and your baby's health during pregnancy. Here are some foods to avoid during pregnancy:
Avoid Seafood with High Mercury Levels: Seafood is a great source of protein and iron, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood can help promote your baby’s brain development. In fact, some studies show that not eating seafood during pregnancy may affect your baby's language skills, behavior, and other developmental issues. Unfortunately, due to environmental pollution, some fish and shellfish contain high levels of mercury. Too much mercury can harm your baby’s developing nervous system. Generally speaking, the larger the fish (or the longer it lives), the higher its mercury content.
Avoid Raw, Undercooked, or Contaminated Foods: To avoid harmful bacteria or viruses, pregnant women should: 1) Avoid raw or undercooked meat, eggs, fish, and shellfish, especially raw oysters and clams; 2) Avoid eating directly smoked foods unless they are reheated; 3) Avoid contaminated foods, especially seafood. If you are unsure if seafood is contaminated, it is best to eat it in moderation.
Avoid Unpasteurized Dairy Products: Many dairy products, such as skim milk, yogurt, and cheese, are part of a healthy diet. However, any dairy products that contain unpasteurized milk can cause foodborne illnesses. Additionally, unpasteurized juices should also be avoided.
Avoid Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables: To avoid ingesting any harmful bacteria and pesticides, thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables.
Avoid Consuming Large Amounts of Liver: Eating small amounts of liver is fine, but do not overconsume it. This is because liver contains high levels of vitamin A, and too much vitamin A can cause birth defects.
Avoid Excessive Caffeine Intake: Caffeine can cross the placenta and directly affect your baby's heart rate. Some studies suggest that excessive caffeine intake may increase the risk of low birth weight, miscarriage, and stillbirth. According to a large study conducted in 2008, consuming 200 milligrams of caffeine per day (equivalent to a 12-ounce cup of coffee) during pregnancy may slow fetal growth. Drinking a small amount is generally fine.
Try to Avoid Drinking Tea: While tea can help soothe the mind, excessive intake may cause uterine contractions and other issues.
Avoid Alcohol: Drinking alcohol excessively during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, and fetal alcohol syndrome (characterized by facial deformities, heart defects, low birth weight, and intellectual disabilities). Even small amounts of alcohol may affect your baby’s brain development. Therefore, to be safe, it is best to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy. If you drank a lot of alcohol early in your pregnancy (but did not know you were pregnant), it is best to consult your doctor and undergo proper checkups.