9 Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

Feb 18, 2024, 11:16 IST

Srishti Sisodia

Here are some of the food items to avoid during pregnancy. 

High mercury fish

Pregnant women should avoid mercury, which is a highly toxic element. And it can be found in fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tuna (especially bigeye tuna), marlin, and orange roughy. Experts also urge to avoid undercooked or raw fish, which have a high risk of containing bacteria or parasites. 

Undercooked or raw meat

Pregnant women must also avoid eating undercooked or raw meat. It can lead to infection from bacteria or parasites. 

Raw eggs 

Experts have often said that pregnant women must avoid raw eggs that might contain Salmonella bacteria. 

Raw sprouts

Raw sprouts, including alfalfa, clover, radish, and mung bean sprouts, are popular in salads. 

Unpasteurised dairy products

Avoid raw milk and other unpasteurised dairy products that can contain harmful bacteria, including Listeria, Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. 

Soft cheese

Some soft cheeses contain listeria, a type of bacteria that can cause severe illness and pregnancy loss.

Processed foods

Highly processed foods tend to be low in nutrients and high in calories, sugar, and added fats, and they may increase the risk of weight gain.

Alcohol

Alcohol increases the risk of pregnancy loss, and stillbirth, and fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). 

Caffeine

High intake of drinks, that contain caffeine, must be avoided during pregnancy as many studies have established the fact that high intake of caffeine leads to a risk of pregnancy loss, stillbirth, small weight at birth, and various other issues.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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