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When preparing to welcome your newborn into the world, one of the most important things to do is to avoid specific foods while pregnant. As you mark off the days and weeks on your pregnancy calendar, your attention may be devoted to numerous things, such as preparing the baby’s room and making adjustments to your life. Eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones will equip your baby with the right nutrients to enter the world with a healthy body.
Avoid Caffeine
Caffeine causes potential problems such as decreasing the flow of blood to the baby. It can also increase the heart rate of the baby and increase miscarriage risks. Limit your caffeine intake to 200 mg per day. Be watchful of caffeine in coffee, sodas and both dark and milk chocolate. Keep track of your caffeine intake on your pregnancy calendar.
Limit Mercury Intake
While fish is generally a healthy food for the average person, you want to avoid specific types of fish while pregnant. Fish such as tuna, swordfish and shark have higher mercury content, which can be potentially damaging to a baby’s underdeveloped nervous system. Choose safer fish options such as shrimp, salmon and catfish.
Avoid Listeria
Pregnant women are particularly prone to illnesses resulting from listeria, a bacteria found in animal products, soil and water. Miscarriage and infections are caused by listeria. Foods that contain listeria are soft cheeses, hot dogs, lunchmeats, raw milk, smoked seafood and unpasteurized juice. Avoid all foods with a long shelf life. Cook foods thoroughly to avoid a bacterial infection.
