5. Certain types of seafood and fish
When you’re pregnant, it’s best to steer clear of swordfish, king mackerel, tuna, shark and raw shellfish as they contain high amounts of mercury, which can be harmful to your baby’s still-developing brain and nervous system. Salmon, shrimp, canned light tuna, sardines, tilapia and catfish are great alternatives since they contain less mercury.
6. Liver
Liver and liver products, such pâté, contain high amounts of vitamin A – and too much can be harmful to your unborn baby. Other foods rich in vitamin A include sweet potatoes, carrots, dark leafy greens and cantaloupe.
7. Raw vegetable sprouts
Consuming raw sprouts, including alfalfa and radishes can be risky even for those of us who aren’t pregnant. In fact, there have been at least 30 reported outbreaks of foodborne illnesses linked to raw and lightly cooked sprouts since 1966, according to www.foodsafety.gov. If you enjoy sprouts and don’t want to give them up, make sure they’re cooked thoroughly before eating. And be extra careful when ordering salads and sandwiches from restaurants because they often contain raw sprouts. Better yet, when ordering, request that your food be prepared sans the sprouts. It’s important to point out that regular fruits and vegetables are fine to consume as long as they’re washed thoroughly.
8. Anything that may cause food allergies
If you, your child’s father and/or another family member has a food allergy, then the greater the chances are that your baby will develop a food allergy later in life. Talk with your doctor first before cutting out certain foods, such as peanuts, dairy and seafood.
8 Foods To Avoid When You’re Pregnant was originally published on blackdoctor.org
