Which and why to avoid these foods if you are pregnant: gynecologist explains

Pregnancy is one of the most cherishable moments of a woman’s life. It comes with excitement, joy, and a little complication. To steer away from the worries, it is important that you take all the precautions and avoid things that can harm you and your baby’s health, especially food items.

So, ladies take note! Avoid all the items enlisted here:

• High mercury fish-

Mercury is toxic and so are the fishes like tilefish, king mackerel, tuna etc. with high mercury content. Mercury Rich Fish can cause miscarriage. If you are a fish eater it’s time to be cautious.

• Undercooked meat-

– Undercooked or uncooked poultry and seafood risk a bacterial infection that at the worst can lead to miscarriage.

• Fennel-

Consumption of fennel and coriander in excess kindle shriveling in the uterus during pregnancy. The phytoestrogens contained stimulate the functions like cleansing uterus and regularise periods.

• Sesame or til-

They have a hot propensity and can expel the fertilized ovum. So, avoid it during starting months of pregnancy.

• Raw eggs-

Salmonella contained in raw or half-boiled eggs may cause food poisoning. A woman’s immune system becomes weak in pregnancy hence she is more susceptible to infections.

• Pineapple –

Fruits are good to eat but certainly pineapple is not during pregnancy. Pineapple contains bromelain enzyme which softens the cervix and can cause pre-term delivery or even miscarriage.

• Raw Papaya-

The latex contained in semi-ripe or raw papaya contains papain enzyme that can trigger uterine contractions. Historically, it was used for abortion. But, ripe papaya is safe to eat in pregnancy.

• Fenugreek seeds-

-Fenugreek seeds may be ok for consumption in late pregnancy but during the first few months it may prompt a breakdown.

• Raw sprouts –

Any kind of sprout when eaten raw may cause bacterial infection. Bacteria like Listeria can cause the death of your baby, miscarriage or other fatal infections. Salmonella and E. coli are the other two bacteria that are present in sprouts which can be life-threatening.

• Grapes-

Consumption of grapes during pregnancy is a matter of several pieces of research. Some say they hike up the body temperature that can cause undesirable snags in the later phase of pregnancy.

Other than these watch out for Caffeine oriented products like tea and coffee, undercooked meat or fish, unwashed fruits and vegetables, unpasteurized milk and soft cheese like feta, Brie, Gorgonzola, queso fresco, etc. and all the Mexican style cheeses.

The food items that you are allergic to must be strictly avoided so that the health of both the bearer and the child are ensured. Get in touch with most advanced Dr Mayuri’sGynecology Clinic in Jaipur& make a wellness appointment at an office convenient to you. Our world-class amenities and qualified doctors are available round the clock. Contact @ +91-9079828410