During pregnancy, it is important to avoid certain foods to reduce the risk of infections and harm to the baby. Key foods to avoid include:
- High-mercury fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, bigeye tuna, marlin, tilefish from the Gulf of Mexico, and orange roughy because mercury can harm the baby's nervous system and development.
- Raw or undercooked fish and seafood, like sushi or smoked seafood, due to the risk of bacterial infections.
- Raw or undercooked meat to prevent infections from bacteria and parasites.
- Processed and deli meats unless heated thoroughly, since they can harbor harmful bacteria.
- Raw eggs and foods made with them (e.g., homemade mayonnaise, mousse) to avoid Salmonella.
- Soft cheeses that are unpasteurized or cheeses such as brie, camembert, feta, queso fresco, and blue cheeses because they may contain listeria bacteria.
- Unpasteurized milk and dairy products.
- Raw sprouts due to the risk of bacteria.
- Highly processed foods and those high in solid, saturated, or trans fats like sausages, hot dogs, fried foods, pastries, and some cheeses.
- Alcohol and limit caffeine intake.
Additionally, strict food safety practices such as washing hands, cooking foods thoroughly, avoiding unwashed fruits and vegetables, and not eating food past its use-by date are essential.
