Most expectant moms know to avoid drinking alcohol and using tobacco products. But, it’s also important to use caution about the food that you eat. Taking a look at the most common hidden foods that you’ll want to avoid during pregnancy helps you and your baby stay healthy.
Why Some Foods Are Surprisingly Risky During Pregnancy
According to the U.S. Health and Human Services Department, pregnant women experience immense system changes that increase their risk of developing a foodborne illness. Some foodborne illnesses can also impact the baby without the mother feeling sick.
Hidden Risks in Common Foods
Many of the most common foods that people enjoy contain hidden risks that make them worth avoiding during pregnancy. Understanding how a favorite food might pose a risk to you or your baby helps make more sense of why you need to leave them out of your diet or use special precautions.
Bacteria and Infections
Salmonella, Listeria, and E. Coli are just a few types of food-related infections that everyone must watch out for. But, pregnant women are more susceptible to severe symptoms from these illnesses. According to the American Academy of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, listeriosis could lead to long-term health problems for babies, miscarriage or stillbirth.
Toxins and Contaminants
Certain foods are known for having higher levels of toxins than others. Lead, mercury and other toxins could cross the placenta and impact your baby’s development.
Allergens and Sensitivities
According to WebMD, pregnant women don’t necessarily need to avoid peanuts and other allergens when they don’t have food sensitivities. However, people with known allergies will need to be extra cautious while they are pregnant. You may also need to be more alert for signs of new food allergies that could develop while you are pregnant.
Hidden Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy
Eating a healthy diet is important for making sure you get the nutrients you and your baby need. Paying attention to these foods to avoid still leaves you with many options for enjoying a nutritious and delicious diet.
Deli Meats and Cured Products
Deli meats are prone to harboring bacteria such as Listeria. According to the American Pregnancy Association, you can cook deli meat until it is steaming to reduce your chances of getting sick. But, these meats also contain high levels of sodium, which means you’ll want to limit them in your diet in general.
Soft and Unpasteurised Cheeses
Soft cheeses include queso fresco, brie, camembert and blue-veined varieties. Choosing hard cheeses protects you from foodborne illnesses.
Prepared and Pre-Packaged Salads
Although pre-packaged salads often claim to be washed, they carry a higher risk of exposing people to E. coli and other bacterial illnesses.
Raw Sprouts
The warm, humid conditions in which bean sprouts grow also make them a higher risk for transmitting E. Coli and Listeria.
High-Mercury Fish
Fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein and zinc. According to the Mayo Clinic, it’s best to stick to low-mercury types of fish that include salmon and freshwater trout. Making sure to limit tuna can also help you to avoid ingesting too much mercury in your diet.
Raw and Undercooked Seafood
Raw oysters and sushi need to stay off the table for now. Make sure to cook any seafood you eat to the proper temperature.
Undercooked Eggs and Meat
Eggs and meat also need to reach the proper temperature to ensure that any possible bacteria or parasites are killed off. Cook eggs until they are no longer runny, and the meat should be the appropriate color and texture.
Herbal Teas and Remedies
According to the National Library of Medicine, peppermint tea can help with nausea, but you’ll need to avoid other types. Since many herbal teas can stimulate the uterus, act as a laxative and have other adverse effects during pregnancy, it’s best to check with your physician first.
Caffeine and High-Sugar Drinks
Too much caffeine and sugar can impact fetal growth. A small amount of soda or coffee is okay when you have a craving, but it’s best to limit how much you drink.
Raw Produce and Contamination Risks
Produce grows outside where it can become contaminated by animal waste and other harmful particles. Fortunately, you can take steps to avoid eating or drinking contaminated food.
Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables
Unwashed produce can be contaminated with harmful bacteria. Cooking produce is always your safest option, but you can wash fruits and vegetables to enjoy them raw.
Unpasteurised Juices
Choosing juice that has gone through special treatments to eliminate harmful germs helps you get more vitamin C without worrying about getting sick.
Safe Eating Practices
Most likely, you already follow safe eating habits. But, it’s always a good idea to review safe practices during pregnancy to make sure you’re following them all.
Cooking and Storing Food Properly
Always check the proper temperature for the food that you cook to make sure any pathogens are eliminated. You’ll also want to avoid leaving food out for too long, and double-check that the refrigerator is set to the right temperature.
Reading Labels and Ingredient Lists
Many foods contain hidden ingredients that you might not suspect. Read the labels of any new foods carefully, and consider checking ones you already consume to be extra safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pregnancy can bring up many questions about how to eat a healthy diet, and reading through these can help you find fast answers when you’re meal planning.
What foods are surprisingly unsafe during pregnancy?
Fruits and vegetables are an essential component of pregnancy diets, but you’ll want to make sure they are washed and prepared with safety in mind.
Is it safe to eat deli meat during pregnancy?
Yes, but you’ll need to heat the deli meat until it is steaming hot to kill the bacteria.
Can herbal teas be harmful during pregnancy?
Some herbal teas are not safe during pregnancy. Always read the label and consult with a healthcare provider about any new or unfamiliar ingredients.
What is the 10-day rule in pregnancy?
The 10-day rule in pregnancy typically involves limiting X-rays to the first 10 days after menstruation to prevent unwanted fetal radiation exposure. But, you could also take this as inspiration to use extra caution with meal planning as early as possible in your pregnancy.
