If you're pregnant, all that you put in your mouth will be given to your baby. Although certain types of foods and even kinds of food poisoning might not harm you, they could cause harm to your baby. To prevent food poisoning, ensure that you do not consume food that has been left in the refrigerator for more than 2 hours (or longer than an hour during hot temperatures). Limit your caffeine intake to 200 mg per day (one 12 ounces of espresso). Also, as you are aware, don't drink alcohol while your baby grows within you. To be safe, stay away from these foods while you are pregnant:
1. Eggs That Are Raw or Cooked Partially
It is important to ensure that eggs are properly cooked until the yolks and whites are firm. This reduces the chance of food poisoning caused by salmonella. Avoid eating foods that contain raw or undercooked eggs, like homemade mayonnaise. If you are looking to cook dishes with raw or partially cooked eggs, you should consider pasteurized eggs. Do not use dirty or cracked eggs.
2. Unwashed Fruits and Veggies
It's always beneficial to give your product a quick wash before taking it for a bite. However, it's particularly essential to clean the fresh vegetables and fruits these days. Harmful bacteria such as Listeria, Salmonella, or E. coli can lurk on the exterior of the produce -- and microbes are easily transferred to the flesh inside an item of produce or vegetable that gets cut or juiced.
It's not necessary to use an extra spray to clean your produce. A thorough rinse in running water before eating or cooking can trick. If you notice any dirt that remains, clean it off using a brush. Cut off any pieces of fruit that appear damaged or bruised as these have a higher chance of being a source of bacteria.
3. Different Kinds of Fish
Fish is a rich source of protein as well as important omega-3 fats, which is why it is suggested during the first trimester. But, certain kinds of fish are more prone to greater levels of mercury which may influence the development of the baby's nervous system. It's crucial to avoid eating fish that contain high concentrations of mercury. Shark (flake) as well as broadbill swordfish and marlin ought to be consumed no more than once every fortnight. Do not eat any other fish within the entire fortnight. Catfish and Orange roughy should only be consumed less than once a week, and any other fish shouldn't be eaten during that time.
4. Alcohol
It is safer to avoid alcohol entirely during pregnancy. Alcohol could harm both the baby and you, and the experts cannot guarantee that drinking alcohol in any quantity is safe. Cooking with alcohol, for example, red wine in bolognese sauce, is safe because the cooking process is able to eliminate the alcohol. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can alter the way your baby develops as well as their health over the long term. Consuming a lot of alcohol during pregnancy could cause your baby to develop a condition known as foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS).
5. Raw Meat
Rare or undercooked poultry or beef is not recommended during pregnancy due to the possibility of contamination with Toxoplasmosis, coliform bacteria, and salmonella. In the home, temperatures should be at or below 140 F when it comes to whole cut cuts and 160 F for meats that are ground, such as hamburgers, and 160 F for chicken breasts.
6. Caffeine
Though most studies suggest that moderate caffeine consumption is acceptable, other studies suggest that caffeine intake could be linked to miscarriages. Avoid caffeine in the first trimester to lower the risk of having a miscarriage. In general, it is recommended to limit caffeine to less than 200 mg daily during pregnancy. This is equivalent to one 12 ounce coffee. The caffeine in coffee is a diuretic, meaning it helps to eliminate excess fluids from the body. Be aware that your favorite drink like chocolate, soda, or energy drink could contain caffeine.
It can lead to loss of calcium and water. It is essential to drink lots of water, juice, and milk instead of caffeinated drinks. A few studies have shown that large levels of caffeine are linked with premature birth, miscarriage, and low birth weight or withdrawal signs in babies. It is best to stay clear of caffeine.
7. Deli Meat
Deli meats have been found to contain listeria, which may cause miscarriage. Listeria can enter the placenta and affect the infant, which can cause blood poisoning, which could be life-threatening. If you're expecting and are thinking of having deli-style meats, you must make sure you heat the meat until it's boiling.
Conclusion
A balanced diet is essential every day; however, it's more important when you're expecting. There are important nutrients as well as vitamins and minerals that your baby is growing. Foods are generally safe; however, it is important to avoid them when pregnant.