Hi, there! Dr. Emily here, I'm an OB-GYN with over 10 years of experience. Congratulations on your pregnancy! This is such a special time, and I'm here to help guide you through it. One of the common questions I get from expectant mothers is about food safety. It's understandable that you want to do everything right to protect your little one. Let's talk about the foods you should avoid or limit during pregnancy.

Let's start with some important points:

* Every pregnancy is unique: While there are general guidelines, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to your specific health history and pregnancy.
* Food safety is key: This is always important, but especially during pregnancy. Make sure to cook foods to the right temperature and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Now, let's get to those foods that are generally off-limits or need to be limited during pregnancy:

1. High-Mercury Fish

Mercury is a heavy metal that can harm a baby's developing nervous system. Here are some fish to avoid:

* Shark
* Swordfish
* King Mackerel
* Tilefish

You can enjoy lower-mercury fish like salmon, shrimp, cod, and canned light tuna in moderation (up to 12 ounces per week).

2. Raw or Undercooked Seafood and Eggs

Raw or undercooked seafood can harbor bacteria and parasites that can cause foodborne illnesses, which are particularly risky during pregnancy. This includes:

* Sushi (containing raw fish)
* Sashimi
* Oysters
* Clams
* Mussels

Raw eggs can contain *Salmonella* bacteria. Avoid foods like:

* Homemade Caesar salad dressing
* Hollandaise sauce
* Raw cookie dough
* **Sunny-side-up eggs (cook eggs until the yolks are firm)**

3. Unpasteurized Foods

Unpasteurized foods have not undergone the heating process that kills harmful bacteria like *Listeria*, which can be dangerous for you and your baby. Avoid:

* **Unpasteurized milk and cheeses (including soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and Feta unless they are clearly labeled as pasteurized)**
* **Unpasteurized juices (including fresh-squeezed juice at restaurants or grocery stores)**

4. Raw or Undercooked Meat and Poultry

As with seafood, undercooked meat and poultry can also harbor bacteria and parasites. Make sure to cook all meat to the recommended internal temperature:

* Poultry (chicken and turkey): 165°F (74°C)
* Ground meat (beef, pork, veal, lamb): 160°F (71°C)
* **Beef, pork, veal, and lamb (steaks, roasts, and chops):** 145°F (63°C)

5. Processed Meats

While an occasional hot dog or deli meat sandwich is unlikely to be harmful, it's best to limit processed meats as they can contain high levels of sodium and nitrates. If you do eat them, make sure they are heated until steaming hot.

6. Liver

Liver is high in vitamin A, but too much vitamin A can be harmful during pregnancy. It's best to avoid liver and liver products like pâté.

7. Alcohol

There is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol can pass to the baby through the placenta and can lead to a range of physical, behavioral, and intellectual disabilities known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs).

8. Excess Caffeine

High caffeine intake during pregnancy has been linked to a slightly higher risk of miscarriage and low birth weight. It's generally recommended to limit caffeine to 200 milligrams per day (about one 12-ounce cup of coffee).

9. Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables

Raw fruits and vegetables are essential for a healthy pregnancy, but it's crucial to wash them thoroughly under running water to remove dirt, bacteria, and potential parasites.

10. Herbal Teas and Supplements

Many herbal products are not recommended during pregnancy as their effects on fetal development are not fully understood. It's important to talk to your doctor before taking any herbal teas or supplements.

Remember: This is not an exhaustive list, and there might be other foods that are best to avoid or limit based on your individual circumstances. When in doubt, always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.

I hope this helps you make informed choices about your diet during pregnancy. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your growing baby!
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Certain dairy productsRaw or lightly cooked eggs or foods made with them. This includes cake batter and raw cookie dough.Soft-scrambled eggs.Unpasteurized juice or milk or any foods made with them.Unpasteurized soft cheeses, such as brie, feta, Camembert, Roquefort, queso blanco, queso fresco and Panela.read more >>