Pregnancy is a happy time for a married couple who wants a baby. Even during pregnancy, nutrition needs to be maintained so that pregnant women are healthy and the fetus they are carrying can develop optimally. However, some foods can be harmful to pregnant women. Anything? Here is a full review of the foods to avoid. Let’s listen!
1. Pineapple
The fruit that pregnant women should avoid is pineapple. This is because pineapple contains bromelain, which can cause miscarriage and premature labor in pregnant women. In addition, the bromelain contained in pineapple can also cause bleeding in pregnant women.
2. Sushi
Who doesn’t love sushi? However, the ingredients in sushi are generally raw, which can harm pregnant women’s health. This is because raw fish meat will most likely still have parasitic worms. If you want to eat sushi, you can make your own by ensuring the meat is thoroughly cooked.
3. Raw Eggs
The following food that is dangerous for young pregnant women is raw eggs. The protein content in eggs is very good for the health of pregnant women and fetuses. However, eggs that are still raw or half-baked still have bacteria that can interfere with the health of pregnant women. The reason is that raw eggs contain Salmonella bacteria, making pregnant women nauseous and vomiting.
4. Junk Food
Junk food is food that is dangerous for young pregnant women. The reason is fast food has excessive levels of fat and sugar, which can cause disturbances to the fetus. According to research in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, consuming too much sugar and fat during pregnancy can increase the child’s risk of developing behavioral problems and ADHD. Therefore, you should avoid junk food.
5. Fish with High Mercury Content
Mercury is a toxic element that is often found in polluted water. Pregnant women who consume fish with high mercury content can be toxic to the nervous system, immunity, and kidneys. Therefore, make sure you avoid it during pregnancy and also while breastfeeding.
Some types of fish that contain high mercury include;
- Tuna
- Shark
- Mackerel
You can consume fish low in mercury, such as anchovies, salmon, and tilapia. Fatty fish such as anchovies and salmon are good for health during pregnancy because they contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Alcohol
If you are pregnant, you should avoid consuming alcohol. This can have a negative impact on the fetus’s health, that is, fetal alcohol syndrome which can cause the fetus to have facial deformities, heart defects, and intellectual disabilities. On top of that, it can increase the risk of miscarriage and the baby being born dead.
7. Raw Bean sprouts
Raw bean sprouts are one of the vegetables that are prohibited for pregnant women. Why? Because raw bean sprouts contain E.coli, Salmonella, and Listeria bacteria which can be risky for pregnant women. Bacteria such as Listeriosis can cause infection, premature birth, and miscarriage.
8. Bitter Melon
The following food that is dangerous for pregnant women is bitter melon. Consumption of bitter melon can cause diarrhea, stomach pain, and headaches. Moreover, it can also cause blood sugar levels to increase in pregnant women. So, you should consume other vegetables during pregnancy.
9. Unpasteurized Milk, Cheese, and Fruit Juice
Unpasteurized milk and cheese can contain harmful bacteria such as Listeria, E. coli, and Campylobacter. Unpasteurized fruit juices are also susceptible to bacterial contamination. This can later be dangerous for the soul of your unborn baby. Therefore, make sure you consume milk, cheese, and fruit juices that have been pasteurized.
Well, that’s the discussion about 9 dangerous foods for pregnant women this time. Ensure you consume the recommended foods and drinks during pregnancy and exercise regularly to keep you and your baby healthy. Hope it’s helpful!