Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, there are a few foods and components of foods to limit or avoid for 9 months.

Caffeine:
The effects of caffeine on miscarriage and preterm labor are still unknown. Therefore, it is recommended that  moms-to-be limit their caffeine consumption to 200 mg per day. To give you an idea of how much caffeine  is in common beverages, there are 40 mg caffeine in both 8 oz of tea and 12 oz can of soda. There is 80-100 mg caffeine in 8 oz of coffee and a whopping 150-300 mg caffeine in energy drink. For this reason, energy drinks should be avoided completely during pregnancy.

Mercury:
Fish provide protein and omega-3s, both necessary nutrients in our diet; however, fish also contain mercury which can cause dangerous adverse effects on the growing baby. If high mercury fish, like shark, swordfish, and mackerel, are eaten, the mercury can build up and cause problems in the baby's brain development. Low mercury fish, such as canned tuna, shrimp, salmon, and catfish, can be eaten up to a total of 12 oz per week.

Bacteria:
Listeriosis is an illness that occurs when foods eaten have been contaminated with the bacteria listeria. Listeria is 20 times more likely to cause illness in a pregnant woman compared to a healthy, nonpregnant adult. It is most likely to affect a woman during the third trimester when her immune system is slightly suppressed. Symptoms can be chills, fevers, diarrhea, and even death of the mom or baby. The good news is that listeria is killed by cooking and pasteurization. Pregnant women should rinse all fresh fruits and vegetables well before consuming. Pregnant women should avoid unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses, processed meats, like deli meats and hot dogs, that have not been cooked thoroughly, and undercooked and raw meats. Meats should all reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Alcohol:
Alcohol has potent effects on an unborn child's physical and mental development and delays continue for the rest of the child's life. Alcohol causes effects on the heart, the nervous system, the reproductive system, and facial structure. Alcohol is not safe in any amounts during pregnancy and should be avoided.