8 Foods You Should Steer Clear Of When You’re Pregnant

When you’re pregnant, you know that you should steer clear of obvious suspects like alcohol and cigarettes, but did you know that there are some foods that could be harmful too? Here’s a list of foods you should avoid eating during those nine months.

Soft Cheeses

Soft cheeses like camembert, feta, brie, blue cheese and panela are made with unpasteurised milk which can contain harmful bacteria that a foetus is unequipped to fight against.

Rare Steaks

Similarly, it’s best to have your steaks well done until your delivery. Raw meat can also contain harmful bacteria.

Sushi and sashimi

Sushi is typically made using varieties of raw fish. If you’re absolutely craving seafood have it cooked well while you’re carrying your baby.

Fresh Juice

While fresh juice is great when you’re not pregnant, it tends to be unpasteurised and can contain bacteria like E Coli and Salmonella. Store bought juices in this case are probably your best bet.

Foods rich in vitamin A

A large amount of vitamin A can be harmful to a foetus, so try to limit your consumption of liver, sweet potatoes and dark green leafy vegetables.

Cold Cuts

Cold cuts are often prepared by being cured or smoked and have delicious, subtle flavours. However, while you’re pregnant try to avoid them as they are not completely cooked and therefore may have bacteria residue.

Desserts with Raw Eggs

Desserts like mousse and tiramisu call for raw eggs, so it’s best to skip them so you can avoid salmonella.

Caffeine

Although you don’t have to give up caffeine completely, most doctors recommend you have a maximum of 200 milligrams of caffeine per day. Remember, caffeine is present in tea, chocolate and soda as well as in coffee.