The period of pregnancy is one of the most memorable times for a couple. The fact that there is a growing fetus in the womb is nothing short of a miracle. Yet, it calls for extreme care, attention and caution. For that baby to grow and develop properly, there are a few things to be considered. Other than eating a much healthier diet, what else must one do? Regular visits to the doctor and regular exercises are advised. This is what is termed as prenatal care. Prenatal care ensures that you maintain a healthy pregnancy. Of course, there are certain supplements and vitamins, such as folic acid, that you should take. That said, what should you avoid during pregnancy? What will have to do without during your pregnancy period?

Let us have a look.

Alcohol

You probably know or have heard about the no alcohol rule during pregnancy. According to the NHS, it’s advisable to stay away from alcohol completely during pregnancy. This helps minimize any potential risks of harming the baby’s development.

More specifically, the alcohol potentially affects the development of the brain and spinal cord. This, in turn, could cause the baby to develop Foetal alcohol syndrome. The development of this syndrome could, in turn, lead to heart defects, vision impairment and ADHD just to name a few.

Raw Eggs

Avoid eating your eggs a runny or raw as they contain salmonella. Salmonella is a type of bacteria that may lead to food poisoning if consumed. Hence, doctors and physicians often advise that you cook them completely.

Certain Types of Fish

Granted, fish is extremely healthy for consumption under normal circumstances. However, there are certain types of fish that contain high levels of mercury. The types of fish to watch out for include shark, marlin and swordfish. Tuna has also been found to contain some amount of mercury in them. Hence, you might want to avoid them, or limit consumption. Additionally, stay away from raw fish as it may cause food poisoning. According to Sasha Watkins, an expert Dietitian, you can consume oily fish. Oily fish contains a good amount of vitamins and minerals that may help in the baby’s development. However, do not consume them more than once or twice a week.

Cheese

According to Dietitian Susan Short, pregnant women should stay away from mould ripened cheeses. According to her, they contain high levels of bacteria such as salmonella. Hence, it could lead to toxic prognosis or Listeriosis. These bacterial infections are often accompanied by vomiting and episodes of diarrhoea. This will ultimately leave the mother dehydrated. This, will, in turn, affect eh baby’s normal development. Keep away from unpasteurized soft cheeses and unpasteurized milk. You can, however; eat hard cheeses such as pecorino.

Meat

Pregnant women are always advised to stay away from pate. Usually, they contain high levels of Listeria, which may lead to food poisoning. Stay away from raw meat as well as liver.
According to the dietitian, Sasha Watkins, the liver is said to contain high levels of Vitamin A. High levels of Vitamin A may interfere with the normal development of the baby. All in all, you can eat beef or meat, as long as you thoroughly cook it. Also, as long as it is not pate or liver.