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If you recently found out you were pregnant, you are likely in the process of making your first pregnancy care appointment with an obstetrician. Your initial visit will usually involve blood work, a physical exam, and information about taking care of yourself while growing a healthy baby. The OBGYN will give you several instructions, including starting a prenatal vitamin and steering clear of certain foods. Discover a few items you should avoid during all three trimesters. 

Pregnancy Care 101: Top Foods to Stay Away From 

1. High Mercury Fish 

Rochester Pregnancy CareOmega-3 rich seafood, such as shrimp and crab, are okay to eat during pregnancy. However, fish with high mercury levels, like albacore tuna, shark, and swordfish, should be avoided. Mercury is toxic to an unborn baby and can affect the development of the liver, kidneys, and immune system. Skip these for lunch and dinner and opt for shellfish, salmon, and tilapia instead. 

2. Processed Meat 

While you may crave sausage, hot dogs, and deli meat while pregnant, avoid processed meats. Factories and storage facilities may cause these foods to be infected with bacteria. Choose steak, chicken breast, and lean cuts of pork instead. Ensure each piece of meat is heated and cooked thoroughly. 

3. Unpasteurized Dairy 

Most of the cheese you buy from the grocery store is pasteurized and safe to eat while pregnant. However, unpasteurized dairy from family farms or farmer’s markets could be dangerous to your health. Cheese made from raw milk like feta, brie, and gorgonzola could also harm your baby. Ensure any dairy you eat went through the process of pasteurization. Select mozzarella, ricotta, and cottage cheese instead. 

4. Unwashed Produce 

Fresh fruits and vegetables will help your baby grow strong and healthy. However, failing to wash produce may cause pregnancy complications due to the chemicals they contain. Run each item under water before cooking or adding it to your salad. Scrub produce with edible skin, such as apples and potatoes. 

5. Organ Meat 

Organs such as liver, kidney, and sweetbread are not safe during pregnancy. Too much organ meat can lead to vitamin A and copper toxicity, which could result in congenital disabilities.

 

Many foods are safe to eat during pregnancy. However, it’s important to be aware of those that should be avoided until you deliver your baby to ensure you and your child are healthy. Your OBGYN can clarify what you can and cannot enjoy. If you need an obstetrician who will take the time to ensure you are safe and healthy, choose Genesee Valley Obstetrics & Gynecology. To make an appointment for pregnancy care in New York, call their Rochester location at (585) 232-3210, their Penfield office at (585) 641-0399, and their Clifton Springs office at (315) 906-0052. For information about their obstetrics services, visit their website

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