All expectant mothers know that nutrition is essential to a healthy, happy pregnancy. However, many feel overwhelmed when choosing which foods to prioritize and which to avoid during pregnancy.
For those in and around Houston, Texas, Hany H Ahmed, MD, is an invaluable resource on all aspects of pregnancy, including maternal and fetal nutrition. He’s proud to offer the following guidance on which foods to avoid as you move through the stages of pregnancy.
Food poisoning is never a good time, but when you’re pregnant, your body can react differently to bacteria-laden food, and your experience can be even more distressing.
Cooking meat and poultry to the proper temperature is an easy way to avoid food poisoning. How you handle and store raw animal products is also important, as is cleaning food storage and prep areas carefully.
You might not realize how many products include raw or undercooked eggs. Some Caesar dressings, hollandaise sauces, mayonnaise, or homemade custards contain raw eggs, which could contain salmonella.
Temperature also matters when you consider which beverages to enjoy during pregnancy. Pasteurization is a process of gently heating milk and juice to kill potentially harmful bacteria that might be present.
Many soft cheeses aren’t made from pasteurized milk and can be harmful. Check labels before purchasing.
Seafood, while an overall healthy food option, can pose risks during pregnancy. Certain choices like swordfish, tuna, and orange roughy can have high levels of mercury contamination; they’re best avoided during pregnancy.
If you enjoy locally sourced seafood, pay close attention to local fish advisories so you’re aware of any water pollution concerns in your area.
Also, avoid eating any seafood product that’s raw or undercooked. Raw oysters, ceviche, sushi, and sashimi are examples, but many smoked fish products are also unsafe unless they’re cooked into a sauce or casserole that’s properly heated.
We’re still learning all of the ways caffeine can affect a developing fetus, but researchers suggest limiting caffeine intake while pregnant.
Some studies suggest high caffeine levels in the first trimester can increase the risk of miscarriage. Others find increased early birth rates and low birth weights when expectant mothers consume too much caffeine.
Until researchers reach a consensus on how caffeine impacts pregnancy, it’s best to limit your daily consumption to 200 milligrams a day, roughly the amount found in one 12-ounce cup of coffee. Caffeine is also present in tea, chocolate, matcha, and many energy drinks.
One thing researchers are clear about is there’s no safe level of alcohol consumption for expectant mothers. Drinking while pregnant increases your risk of many problems for yourself and your little one.
The best practice is to cease alcohol consumption when you begin trying to get pregnant. Also, avoid alcohol while breastfeeding; it can pass to your baby through breast milk. If you consumed alcohol before you knew you were pregnant, stop and let Dr. Ahmed know.
There’s a lot to think about as you move through your pregnancy, and nutrition is among the more important topics. Hany H Ahmed, MD, and his team are here to guide and support you throughout your journey.
If you have additional questions or concerns about food safety during pregnancy, reach out by phone or online today to schedule a visit.
