Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy and the Risks

It's fair to say that there are foods that when eating during pregnancy can cause risks for the developing baby and although the risk is very minimal most expectant mothers are keen to learn which foods to avoid during pregnancy.

We would like to provide an overview of the main foods and drinks to avoid during your pregnancy so that you're able to ensure a healthy pregnancy for you and your new baby and ease any anxieties you may be feeling about consuming various foods.

Chicken, meat and eggs should be cooked thoroughly before consuming to eliminate the risk of Salmonella. Always wash your hands when preparing meats and chicken and remember to wipe the surfaces and chopping boards so that any bacteria will not be transferred to other foods that you are preparing for your meal.

Products made with un pasteurized milk should be avoided period - they may be infected with lysteria which can actually increase the risk of miscarriage. Lysteria can also be found in meats that aren't cooked properly.

Avoid Eating Fish Containing Mercury During Pregnancy

Fish with high mercury levels such as tuna, swordfish, and sea bass should be one of the top foods to avoid during pregnancy. There is reason to believe that fish containing mercury can actually harm the developing fetus.

Soft cheese like Brie should also be avoided during pregnancy due to risk of lystria infection which we mentioned earlier - if in doubt, always avoid these types of food products.

Risks When Preparing Your Foods

It's fine to eat well cooked meat and chicken etc during your pregnancy but when preparing these and other food you should always clean the work tops between preparing each food to eliminate any bacteria. Hygiene when cooking is particularly important during your pregnancy - it isn't all about which foods to avoid during pregnancy. Be careful and you will be ok.