Foods to Avoid While Pregnant
By: Gretchen Bolander
Updated: July 30, 2010
It's good idea to stick to a healthy diet during pregnancy. And there are a few extra rules to follow to protect the baby. Freeman OB/GYN Dr. Angela Langer said, "Caffeine, for example. There may be some link to miscarriage rates - literature on that may be a little unclear. But that is one reason. Fish - you worry about mercury levels. And that can cause problems with the baby and cognitive development. So it really depends on the topic we're talking about - anywhere from miscarriage to fetal development."
Dr. Langer adds that raw foods can harbor bacteria which can be dangerous. Even lunchmeat can be risky. "It's very rare for that to happen but when it does its catastrophic so we just say that if you're going to eat anything that's raw or meat make sure it's completely cooked if it's steaming you're usually okay and that goes with your sandwich - just heat and you're usually safe."
Sprouts are also on the list. Also raw fish. "Sushi is something we caution against. Unpasteuriszed foods like feta cheese is something we talk about little bit. White cheese that might not be pasteurized. Brie," said Dr. Langer.
And even some cooked fish is off limits - larger varieties like swordfish that can contain high levels of mercury.
Dr. Langer adds that raw foods can harbor bacteria which can be dangerous. Even lunchmeat can be risky. "It's very rare for that to happen but when it does its catastrophic so we just say that if you're going to eat anything that's raw or meat make sure it's completely cooked if it's steaming you're usually okay and that goes with your sandwich - just heat and you're usually safe."
Sprouts are also on the list. Also raw fish. "Sushi is something we caution against. Unpasteuriszed foods like feta cheese is something we talk about little bit. White cheese that might not be pasteurized. Brie," said Dr. Langer.
And even some cooked fish is off limits - larger varieties like swordfish that can contain high levels of mercury.
