Banish these foods if you are Pregnant!
Pregnancy is one of the most cherished times for a couple, especially for a mother. But with pregnancy comes great responsibility – living healthy and eating wise. Pregnancy has its’ unique complications. Like choice in foods. If you are pregnant then there is a list of foods which are an absolute no-no for you.
Do you know what to eat and what not to eat for a smooth pregnancy and a healthy child?
Here’s a quick checklist for you –
Unpasteurized Products
Unpasteurized milk, cheese, juices, etc. must be avoided during pregnancy. Unpasteurized products
can be contaminated with harmful bacteria, the likes of Listeria, Salmonella, E.coli and
Campylobacter. These bacteria can trigger life-threatening consequences on the unborn child. However, it is okay to consume pasteurized milk, juice and cheese. Therefore, keep a sharp eye
on the dairy products you consume while pregnant.
Undercooked Meat & Eggs
Undercooked meat may contain a host of harmful bacteria and hence pregnant women are advised to stay away from it. The bacteria in such meats can cause severe neurological problems, blindness, epilepsy or even still birth. Apart from affecting the unborn baby, these bacteria can affect the pregnant mother too. Therefore, whenever you eat meat, make sure that it is properly cooked or heated. Raw eggs, on the other hand contain salmonella and affect the mother causing nausea, diarrhoea, cramps, fever etc.
Raw Papaya & Pineapple
Unripe papaya contains latex and papain. Both these substances can lead to early labour as it causes uterine contractions and weakens vital membranes that support the foetus.
The bromelain enzyme in Pineapple breaks down protein and by doing so it can soften the cervix resulting in miscarriage. Thus, it is recommended to avoid pineapple and papaya during the first trimester in pregnancy.
Raw Sprouts
Sprouts are a great vegetarian source of protein and a good amount of protein is required to be consumed by the mother throughout the pregnancy. However, most of the bacteria that are present in unpasteurized products like Listeria, Salmonella, E. coli, are also present in raw sprouts. In order to avoid all kinds of bacterial infections, pregnant women are advised to avoid eating raw sprouts, specially the packed ones available at all vegetable vendors these days. Instead, make sprouts at home, cook them and then eat.
High-Mercury Fish
High Mercury fish contains methylmercury, a neurotoxin that has very adverse effect on the nervous system of an unborn child. Swordfish, shark, king mackerel and tuna are said to be the richest source of methylmercury. Also, any form of raw fish and shellfish must be avoided by women who are either pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs
Mothers to be must totally banish alcohol, tobacco and drugs from their lives. They contain complex chemicals which are potent enough to harm the brain development of the baby and can cause miscarriage or still birth.
Quick Mentions:
Apart from these, a pregnant woman should limit the Caffeine and Organ Meat consumption; avoid unwashed fruits and vegetables as their surface may be contaminated with bacteria and chemicals, and processed/junk food as they are loaded with high calories & little nutrition.
It is important for a pregnant lady to consult a nutritionist for a balanced diet. Good eating habits only promote better development for the unborn. Eating at the right time, and in the right quantity is also necessary to undergo a hassle-free pregnancy. Take care of what you eat, as what you eat influences the development of the foetus.
