Foods to Avoid Pregnant Women

During pregnancy, many things must be done more carefully. One of them is eating. The reason is, there are some foods that should be avoided by pregnant women because they have the potential to endanger the health of the unborn child. Completing nutritional needs during pregnancy must be done to keep the fetus healthy and can grow well. Whatever is consumed by pregnant women will affect the fetus in the womb. There are foods that are useful for fetal growth and development, but there are also foods that actually endanger the health of the fetus, so it needs to be avoided by pregnant women.

List of Foods to Avoid Pregnant Women

Although pregnant women are encouraged to consume various types of food, not all foods may be consumed by pregnant women. The following are some types of food and drinks that need to be avoided by pregnant women:

1. Milk or cheese that has not been pasteurized

Pasteurization is a heating process that functions to kill bacteria in food or drink, without damaging the nutritional content. Therefore, pregnant women should not consume milk that has not gone through this process, because it could be that the milk contains bacteria that can harm the health of your child in the womb.

2. High-specious seafood

Swordfish, mackerel, sharks, tuna, and shellfish are some types of seafood that contain high mercury. If consumed in excess, mercury can cause pregnant women to experience disorders of the nerves, kidneys, and immune system. In addition, the fetus can also experience disabilities and growth disorders. If pregnant women want to eat seafood, the recommended maximum portion is 300 grams or about 2 servings per week.

3. Raw or undercooked fish

If pregnant women eat sushi, you should first avoid these foods during pregnancy. Eating raw or undercooked fish and shellfish can increase the risk of pregnant women having an infection. Pregnant women can still eat fish and shellfish, as long as it is cooked until completely cooked.

4. Raw or undercooked meat

Always make sure the meat you eat is cooked. This is very important, because undercooked meat can contain harmful germs. When entered into the body of pregnant women, these germs can cause diseases, such as listeria, which can harm the fetus and pregnant women themselves.

5. Fruits and vegetables that are not washed

Do not forget to always wash fruits and vegetables before pregnant women consume them. Otherwise, germs and parasites attached to the fruit or vegetables can cause infection. One type of parasite that can contaminate fruit or vegetables is Toxoplasma. This parasite can cause blindness and brain disorders in the fetus.

6. Offal

Pregnant women should not consume any innards, although basically these foods have a lot of nutrients. Offal should only be consumed by pregnant women once a week, with a sufficient portion. Too much consumption of innards can interfere with fetal growth, and cause liver disorders in pregnant women.

7. Raw eggs

Raw eggs and foods made from raw eggs, such as fresh mayonnaise, are at risk of being contaminated by Salmonella bacteria. This bacterium can cause infections that make pregnant women vomit, fever, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. In some cases, stomach cramps due to this infection can even cause premature birth.

8. Caffeine

Actually it is okay to consume caffeine while pregnant, but it must be limited. The caffeine found in coffee, tea and chocolate has the potential to interfere with fetal development. Caffeine can even cause miscarriage, if pregnant women consume too much. During pregnancy, caffeine consumption in a day should be no more than 200 mg, or about 2-3 cups of coffee, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy.

9. Alcohol

Pregnant women are advised not to consume alcohol at all. Even in small amounts, alcohol can interfere with fetal development and increase the potential for miscarriage. If pregnant women have allergies or certain diseases, other foods to avoid, of course, are foods that can trigger allergic reactions or worsen disease conditions. To be sure, consult directly with a gynecologist. The doctor will tell you what foods should be avoided during pregnancy, according to pregnant conditions.