What are the Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy?

Expert Dietitian Aslıhan Küçük Budak gave information about the subject. Proper nutrition during pregnancy is important for both the development of the baby and the protection of the mother's health. During this period, there are some foods that have harmful effects on mother and baby health and should be avoided. So what are the foods to avoid during pregnancy? Here are the details…

FISH WITH HIGH QUANTITY OF MERCURY

Mercury is a toxic element that damages the nervous system, immune system and kidneys. Consumption of fish containing high amounts of mercury during pregnancy may cause serious developmental disorders in infants. Swordfish, tuna, king mackerel and shark are fish that contain high amounts of mercury. Instead of these fish, species with low mercury content such as anchovies, salmon, haddock, trout, flounder can be preferred.

RAW FISH and SHELL SEAFOOD

Listeria bacteria found in raw fish and shellfish can pass through the placenta to your baby, even if you don't show any signs of illness. This can lead to preterm birth, miscarriage, stillbirth, and other serious health problems. Undercooked/raw fish, shellfish such as mussels and oysters should be avoided.

RAW sprouts

Recently, it has been frequently used in salads; Salmonella bacteria, which cause dangerous infections, can reproduce very easily in the fresh sprouts of alfalfa, lentils and mung beans. Therefore, raw sprouts must be consumed by cooking.

ENERGY BEVERAGES

Energy drinks may contain high amounts of sugar and caffeine, as well as taurine, carnitine, inositol, ginkgo and thistle.

It is unclear how safe these substances are for consumption during pregnancy. Another common ingredient, Ginseng, is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Energy drinks should not be consumed during pregnancy.

UNWASHED FRUIT AND VEGETABLES

Various bacteria and parasites can be found on the surfaces of fruits and vegetables that have not been washed well. While most babies infected with Toxoplasma bacteria while still in the womb do not have any symptoms at birth, symptoms such as blindness or intellectual disability may develop later in life. Before consuming vegetables and fruits, they should be thoroughly washed and cleaned, and vegetables and fruits should not be consumed in places where cleaning is not sure.

UNPASTEURIZED MILK, CHEESE AND JUICE

Raw milk, unpasteurized cheeses and juices can contain harmful bacteria. Mold-ripened cheeses such as gorgonzola and roquefort should be avoided. Pasteurization is the most effective way to kill harmful bacteria without changing the nutritional value of products. Only pasteurized varieties should be consumed to minimize the risk of infection.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

Alcohol should be completely avoided while pregnant, as it increases the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth. Even a small amount can negatively affect your baby's brain development.