A nutritious diet is one of the keys to staying healthy during pregnancy. However, there are a number of foods that you will want to avoid while you are pregnant. Below is a list of some of the foods that you should not eat during pregnancy:

Fish That Is High In Mercury

If a developing baby is exposed to excess amounts of mercury, then he or she can sustain brain damage and other developmental delays. That is why doctors recommend expectant mothers avoid fish that contain high levels of mercury. This includes fish such as mackerel, swordfish and tile.

Raw Eggs

Raw eggs may be contaminated with salmonella which can pose a threat to a fetus. If you are expecting, you should avoid any foods that contain raw eggs, including foods such as mayonnaise, some salad dressings and homemade ice cream.

Smoked Seafood

Smoked seafood may contain a bacteria called listeria. Listeria can cause fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system and cause headaches, stiffness of the neck, confusion and even convulsions.

Unpasteurized Dairy Products

If you consume any dairy products during your pregnancy, then you will need to make sure that they have been pasteurized. Like smoked seafood, unpasteurized dairy products may have the listeria bacteria.

Undercooked Meat

All meat that you consume during your pregnancy needs to be thoroughly cooked. Undercooked meat may have toxoplasma gondii. This can lead to vomiting, and it can harm developing baby and increase the risk of a miscarriage.

Caffeine

Some studies show that it is okay for women to consume caffeine in moderate amounts during pregnancy. However, other studies suggest that caffeine consumption may increase the risk of a miscarriage. Large amounts of caffeine have also been shown to increase the risk of stillbirth and premature birth. If you’re pregnant, limit your intake of caffeine and focus on getting enough sleep.

Get the Care You Need Through Every Stage of Pregnancy

Being pregnant is one of the most exciting times in woman’s life, but it is important to have the proper care. At OB-GYN Women’s Centre of Lakewood Ranch, we provide comprehensive care for women throughout every stage of pregnancy. If you’re in need of compassionate and professional OBGYN services, call us today or schedule an appointment online.