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Pregnancy is one of the most sensitive and vital periods in a female’s life. Therefore, it is very important for a pregnant female to eat a healthy diet.
Pregnant females need to pay close attention to what they eat or drink and make sure to strictly avoid harmful foods and beverages to have a healthy baby.
During pregnancy, certain foods should only be eaten rarely, while others should be completely avoided.
Depending on your pregnancy, your doctor may also advise you to cut down some food items completely during the whole pregnancy. Here is a list of 10 foods and beverages that pregnant females should avoid.
Table of Contents
Fish and Seafood
Large fishes contain high levels of mercury, which is harmful to the growing fetus. It can cause damage to the growing infant’s brain and the nervous system. Pregnant females are strictly advised to avoid intake of large fish such as tuna, shark, swordfish, marlin, walleye, etc. Canned tuna also contains low levels of mercury as compared to the other tuna. So, if you really crave tune, consult your doctor if you can consume it in limited amounts.
Eggplant
Eggplant (known as brinjal) is a common food consumed in almost all Indian families. Eggplant is also considered to be effective in treating amenorrhoea and premenstrual disorder. But, eggplant is not very good for a pregnant female and should be avoided. However, consuming small quantities once in a while should not pose a threat.
Unpasteurized Milk and its Products
It is suggested to slightly boil the milk before consuming it as it can kill the germs and prevent disease-causing microbes which can be harmful to the fetus. Milk is definitely important for the female, but it should be pasteurized before consuming it.
Also Read: Food guide for pregnant women
Sesame Seeds
In earlier times, dry sesame seeds were used as a medicine to end the pregnancy ( for abortion). Dry sesame seeds stimulate the uterine muscles, which can cause expulsion of the fertilized ovum. It is advisable to avoid consuming sesame seeds during the first 3 to 4 months of pregnancy. Other dry nuts like almonds, raisins, walnuts, groundnuts, etc are safe to consume in moderate quantities.
Papaya
Papaya is believed to stimulate abortion. Hence, it can be very dangerous in pregnancy. Raw and unripe papaya is enriched with a substance known as latex, which causes uterus contractions. Two other substances in papaya namely, papain and pepsin can potentially restrict fetal growth. Nutritionists and experts suggest females to strictly avoid consuming unripe papaya during pregnancy.
Also Read: Most essential Nutrients for women of every age
Ajinomoto
Ajinomoto is widely used in many types of street food and Indian households. It is mostly used in Chinese cuisines, which is a popular cuisine among Indians. But, this ingredient is not very beneficial for a pregnant female. Ajinomoto can largely affect the development of the fetus’ brain. Hence, it is suggested to avoid its consumption completely to protect the growth of the fetus.
Pineapple
Pineapple is enriched with a compound called bromelain, which can lead to the softening of the cervix, causing unsuccessful labor or miscarriage. It is believed that pineapple can get the pregnant female’s body heated up rapidly, which can lead to adverse effects like abortion or premature birth. Nonetheless, consuming papaya in small quantities after consulting your doctor is safe during pregnancy.
Fennel and Fenugreek Seeds
Funnel and fenugreek seeds are widely used as taste-enhancers in the Indian kitchens. They can be consumed by a pregnant female occasionally in small quantities. But, consuming them consistently in large amounts is a big no-no for a pregnant female. These seeds contain high levels of phytoestrogens, which can fortify the compression of the uterus and also have the potential to stimulate menstruation. So, they can be a threat to the fetus. Better avoid these in your pregnancy to prevent any complications.
Refined Flour Products
Maintain a distance from food items made of refined flour such as bread, pita, noodles, pasta, cookies, pizza, etc. Similarly, avoid packaged and ready to eat food items as they have preservatives and chemicals which can harm the growing baby.
Also Read: 9 Benefits of Coconut Water During Pregnancy
Grapes
Pregnant females should avoid consuming grapes particularly in the last phases of pregnancy. Grapes have been additionally found to raise body temperature, which can prompt undesirable complexities. Grapes also contain, which can imbalance the hormones of a pregnant female.
Overview
Proper hygiene and a well-balanced nutrient-rich diet are always recommended during pregnancy. However, this may not always be easy to do, as the pregnant female may have restrictions to avoid some foods. Even if you really like those foods, it is best to avoid consuming them in pregnancy for you and your baby’s health and well-being.
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