Pregnancy Nutrition: Foods to Avoid When Expecting

Foods to Avoid While Pregnant

While the holiday season is meant to be When you're pregnant, there are plenty of foods that supply your body with the proper nutrition to support fetal development. However, there are also certain foods that can cause complications.

High-Mercury Fish

Ingesting large amounts of mercury can cause damage to various areas of your health including the nervous system and immune system. However, even eating smaller amounts of mercury can cause developmental issues for your little one. Because there is no recommended level of exposure, it is advised that you avoid fish that are higher in mercury while pregnant or breastfeeding.

High-mercury fish to avoid include:

• Swordfish
• Shark
• Mackerel
• Tuna
• Marlin

Unwashed Fruits & Vegetables

While eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is an excellent way to fit essential vitamins and nutrients into your diet, it is important that you wash them thoroughly before eating them. This is because plenty of harmful bacteria parasites lives on the outside of your produce.

Some of these harmful germs include:

• E Coli
• Salmonella
• Listeria
• Toxoplasma

Be sure to thoroughly wash and peel your produce to avoid ingesting these harmful microorganisms.

Deli Meats

Deli meats are some of the most common foods to find in a family home in America. However, they may be harmful to expectant mothers to consume. This is because pregnant women are at an increased risk of becoming infected with listeria—which can lead to serious health complications for both the mother and baby.

Birthing Care Services in Henry County

At Henry County Hospital, you can expect a five-star experience when you choose to grow your family with our family-centered birthing care services. Our knowledgeable and compassionate staff helps your family make the first days healthful and comfortable. after welcoming your little one into the world.

From education to emotional support, we focus on your individual health and wellness. Learn more about our birthing center today.