Foods and Beverages to Avoid During Pregnancy

fish

When a woman is pregnant, she needs to pay extra care to what she consumes as it not only affects her health but also the development and wellbeing of the baby. There are certain foods and beverages that can pose potential risks to her health and the baby’s health. These include certain types of fish, alcohol, raw or undercooked food, high caffeine beverages etc.

It is always advisable to consult with your doctor to understand your dietary needs during pregnancy.

Seafood High in Mercury

Seafood can be an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, some types of fish and shellfish contain high levels of mercury, which can damage the developing brain of the fetus.

Foods to Avoid:
Shark, Swordfish, King mackerel, Tuna (especially Bigeye tuna)

Safe alternatives:
Light canned tuna, Shrimp, Salmon, Catfish

Raw or Undercooked Food

Consumption of raw or undercooked food is risky as it may contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause food poisoning. Some of these illnesses, like toxoplasmosis, can harm the fetus.

Foods to avoid:
Raw or undercooked meat, Raw eggs, Unpasteurized juice, Raw sprouts

Safe alternatives:
Well-cooked meat, Cooked eggs, Pasteurized juice, Cooked vegetables

Alcohol

Alcohol in the mother’s bloodstream can pass to the baby through the umbilical cord. Drinking during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, and a range of lifelong disabilities known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs).

In general, consumption of alcohol in any form and quantity is prohibited not only for pregnant women, so leave these harmful drinks behind.

Beverages to avoid:
Any form of alcohol

Safe alternatives:
Water, Fruit Juice, Milk, Non-alcoholic beverages

High Caffeine Beverages

High intake of caffeine during pregnancy can result in miscarriage, premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental delays.

Beverages to avoid:
Coffee, Tea, Energy drinks, Soda (excessively)

Safe alternatives:
De-caffeinated coffee and tea, Water, Herbal tea, Lemon water

Foods or Beverages to AvoidSafe Alternatives
Seafood high in MercuryLight canned tuna, Shrimp, Salmon, Catfish
Raw or Undercooked FoodWell-cooked meat, Cooked eggs, Pasteurized juice, Cooked vegetables
AlcoholWater, Fruit Juice, Milk, Non-alcoholic beverages
High Caffeine BeveragesDe-caffeinated coffee and tea, Water, Herbal tea, Lemon water

A healthy diet during pregnancy is vital for the mother and baby’s wellbeing. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet.

Reyus Mammadli

As a healthy lifestyle blogger for over 10 years, I couldn't pass up healthy eating and diet reviews. I prefer to write small, understandable articles and guides for visitors, to answer the question clearly and concisely and to give the reader a starting point for further actions to improve their diet and health in general.

Diet Expert