Top 6 Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy For A Healthy Baby And Mom

Pregnancy is a transformative time, and expecting mothers often receive plenty of advice about what to eat and what to avoid. While many foods can provide essential nutrients for both the mother and the baby, some can pose risks and should be carefully managed or avoided entirely. To shed light on this topic, we consulted with Dr. Latha Sashi, Chief Nutritionist and Head, Dept. of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Fernandez Hospital & Ankita Das, Clinical Dietitian, Fernandez Hospital to know about this in detail:

Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy

1. Raw or Undercooked Meat, Eggs or Seafood

Dr. Latha Sashi, Chief Nutritionist and Head, Dept. of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Fernandez Hospitalemphasises that raw or undercooked foods can harbour harmful bacteria and parasites that pose risks to both the mother and the baby. “Avoid raw or undercooked seafood, such as sushi and sashimi, as they may contain harmful bacteria or parasites that can pose serious risks to you and your baby”, she explains. It's crucial to cook seafood, meat, and eggs thoroughly. Raw or undercooked eggs can contain Salmonella, a bacterium that can cause food poisoning.

2. High-Mercury Fish

Ankita Das, Clinical Dietitian, Fernandez Hospital says that, “Certain fish have high mercury levels, which can negatively impact fetus brain development. Instead, opt for fish that are lower in mercury, such as salmon and shrimp, which provide beneficial omega-3 fatty acids”. These essential fats are vital for the baby’s brain development but should be consumed in moderation.

3. Avoid Unpasteurised Dairy Products

Unpasteurised or raw milk and cheeses pose significant risks due to potential contamination with harmful bacteria, such as Listeria. The expert states that, “Unpasteurised milk and soft cheeses can carry Listeria, a bacterium that can lead to listeriosis, a severe infection during pregnancy that can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or illness in newborns.”

4. Raw Sprouts

“Raw sprouts like alfalfa and radish can carry bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. Pregnant women should avoid raw sprouts or cook them thoroughly before eating, says the expert. According to the FDA report, sprouts are safe to consume when cooked.

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5. Caffeine

Moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but excessive amounts can be harmful. “Excessive caffeine can lead to dehydration and may affect fetus development. Limit your intake to less than 200 mg per day, or about two medium cups of coffee,” says the expert.

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6. Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption during pregnancy is a well-established risk factor for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs). Both the experts shared that, “No amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy. It’s best to avoid alcohol entirely to ensure the health and well-being of the baby.”

Note: Make sure to consult with your healthcare provider about any dietary plans and concerns during pregnancy.

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