How many times have you heard the expression “eat well because you are eating for two”? This does not mean that you need to eat double the usual amount. What is means is that you need to have a well-balanced and responsible diet plan. While most foods are safe to eat, there are a few that it would be best for you to avoid. Here is a list of some of the foods and drinks that it is advisable to stay away from while pregnant.

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1. Raw meat

Rare or undercooked meats should be avoided by all means because of the risk of contamination with coliform bacteria, toxoplasmosis, and salmonella.

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Points: 17

2. Questionable seafood

There are several things that fall in this category. The most obvious one of course would be sushi because of the risk of different bacteria. In addition, you should stay away from fish that may have high levels of mercury. This metal is quite dangerous and if consumed during pregnancy it can lead to developmental delays and even brain damage. Smoked seafood should also be avoided as it could be contaminated with Listeria. According to the American Pregnancy Association, “the majority of seafood-borne illness is caused by undercooked shellfish, which include oysters, clams, and mussels. Cooking helps prevent some types of infection, but it does not prevent the algae-related infections that are associated with red tides. Rawfish should be avoided altogether during pregnancy.”

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Points: 14

3. Soft cheeses

Imported cheeses (usually from Europe) may carry the Listeria bacteria which has the potential to cross the placenta and harm your baby or even cause a miscarriage. With that in mind you should avoid soft cheeses like Camembert, Brie, Feta, etc. Soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk are OK to eat.

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Points: 13

4. Deli meats

If you plan on eating any deli meats during your pregnancy you should process them at home before ingesting. You can either heat them well or cook them to ensure that they are free of bacteria. The biggest concern here is the Listeria bacteria that has proven to be extremely harmful to growing fetuses.

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Points: 10

5. Raw eggs

Raw eggs or foods made with raw eggs should be avoided altogether because of the risk of salmonella. Commercially manufactured ice cream, dressings and dishes are made with pasteurized eggs and do not carry that risk.

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Points: 9

6. Alcohol

Alcohol passes the placenta and can be harmful to your baby. Some people try to justify having a glass of wine here and there but the truth is that no amount of alcohol is good for your baby during pregnancy. And you know what they say – “better safe than sorry”.

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Points: 8

7. Caffeine

This one is highly controversial. Several different studies have been done on the effect of caffeine during pregnancy and while some say that having a bit of caffeine is OK, others indicate that it may be related to miscarriages. What doctors usually recommend is that you don’t take any caffeine during the first trimester of your pregnancy and then limit your intake to 300 mgs per day. Always make sure that you drink plenty of liquids as caffeine is a diuretic and it flushes water and potentially calcium out of your system.

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Points: 4

8. Pate

Any meat spreads or dry salami may carry bacteria and should be avoided.

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Points: 2

9. Unpasteurized milk and cider

Anything unpasteurized may carry Listeria and lead to infections and blood poisoning. Drink only pasteurized liquids and make sure that you don’t make any irresponsible choices during your pregnancy.

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Points: 2

10. Unwashed fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are critical for providing fiber, vitamins and minerals for your growing baby. However, it is important that you thoroughly wash them before eating to avoid any potential exposure to toxoplasmosis.

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Points: 1

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