Pregnancy often comes with a list of food do’s and don’ts, and it can feel overwhelming to sort through what’s truly safe versus what’s overly cautious advice. Given that the foods you eat can affect the health of both you and your baby, pregnancy food safety guidelines are essential.
At the office of board-certified OB-GYN Alan B. Patterson, MD, our team of women’s health experts are dedicated to providing exceptional pregnancy and delivery care. We strive to ensure you feel confident in your choices throughout pregnancy, including helping you make informed decisions about nutrition and diet through every trimester.
Here, we discuss some commonly “forbidden” foods during pregnancy, and explain why it’s important to exercise caution.
One of the most well-known pregnancy guidelines is to avoid raw or undercooked meats, fish poultry and eggs. These foods can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning.
During pregnancy, your immune system is naturally suppressed to support your growing baby, and this makes you more vulnerable to these food-borne infections. Ensuring meats are cooked to a safe internal temperature and eggs are fully cooked can help protect you and your baby from unnecessary health risks.
Fish is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your baby’s brain development. However, some types of fish, like swordfish, shark, tuna, and king mackerel, contain high levels of mercury that are harmful to your baby’s developing nervous system.
Choose lower-mercury options like salmon, shrimp, and sardines, which allow you to get the nutritional benefits without the added risk. If you love sushi, you can safely enjoy rolls made with cooked low-mercury fish.
It’s also crucial to avoid unpasteurized dairy foods, such as certain cheeses, milk, and yogurts, during pregnancy due to the risk of Listeria contamination. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cross the placenta, potentially causing miscarriage, premature delivery, or a fetal infection.
Opt for pasteurized dairy foods, which undergo heat treatment to kill harmful bacteria without sacrificing nutrition. If you’re a cheese lover, you can still enjoy hard cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and pasteurized feta.
Deli meats and store-prepared salads may seem harmless, but they can harbor bacteria like listeria if not stored or handled properly. Listeria can grow at refrigerator temperatures, making these foods particularly risky during pregnancy. If you’re craving a sandwich, consider heating deli meats until they’re steaming to reduce the risk of contamination. When it comes to salads, making them fresh at home is the safest option.
While caffeine isn’t strictly forbidden, it’s recommended to keep your intake moderate during pregnancy. High caffeine levels can cross the placenta and affect your baby’s heart rate. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists recommend limiting caffeine to 200 milligrams per day, about the amount in one 12-ounce cup of coffee. If you’re a coffee lover, try opting for decaf or tea to satisfy your cravings without overdoing it.
Navigating food choices during pregnancy doesn’t have to be daunting. The office of Alan B. Patterson, MD, is here to provide support and guidance, so you can feel confident from the first trimester through delivery.
Nutrition is an aspect you can prioritize even before pregnancy occurs. Contact us to schedule your visit and learn more about how to best fuel your body before, during, and after pregnancy. We’re here to accompany you — and provide guidance tailored to your specific needs — on your pregnancy journey.
