Foods to avoid during Pregnancy - 14/06/2010

I have a few friends who have recently found out their pregnant. Of course there is a lot of myths and confusion on what you can and can't eat safely during your pregnancy. I decided to ressurect a past article I wrote for the "Caboolture News" last year in the hope I could answer my friends questions. 

It is a common question by all pregnant women - what foods you should avoid eating during your pregnancy? When pregnant you are often given general information from your midwife or treating doctor, such as avoid consuming drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol as they may affect your unborn child.  Caffeine can cross into the baby’s blood, possibly resulting in spontaneous abortion or low birth weight. Alcohol consumed during pregnancy can be harmful and result in foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or foetal alcohol effects (FAE). 

Recently there has been some controversy over the safety of consuming artificial sweeteners such as Aspartame (NutraSweet and Equal). These sweeteners are used widely in soft drinks, low calorie desserts, yogurt, chewing gum, sports bars and confectionary. During pregnancy, it’s best to avoid these products all together. Read food labels to see if artificial sweeteners have been added. 

There is also a few food borne illnesses associated with some foods. Listeriosis is a bacteria that can cause miscarriage during the first trimester and acute illness or stillbirth later in pregnancy. To decrease the risk of contracting listeriosis, pregnant women should avoid unpasteurised milk products such as soft cheeses (e.g. Feta, Brie, Camembert and Blue cheese). Other sources include pates, processed and raw meats, and poultry.  

E coli is another bacteria that can have harmful effects during pregnancy. When ingested it can produce deadly toxins that causes severe damage to the intestinal tract and kidneys. In pregnant women, the infection can travel to the foetus and cause infections that are resistant to antibiotics. 

Salmonella is another food borne illness commonly found in raw or undercooked eggs. During pregnancy, it’s best to avoid eating eggs with a runny yolk, as they have not been cooked sufficiently to kill off harmful salmonella bacteria.  

If you wish to learn more about the types of foods you can eat during pregnancy contact the team at Merendi on 1300 881 536. 

Article by Merendi Leverett-Bowler

Mother of 3 - twins and singleton

Accredited Exercise Physiologist

GradDipHSc(ExRehab), BHMSc, AEP, MAESS

Categories:

RSS