If you recently worked with a fertility clinic to successfully get pregnant, you’re probably thrilled to be carrying a child. Diet is extremely important for pregnant women as the food is used to nourish the baby. Along with eating healthy and wholesome meals, certain foods should be avoided to prevent complications.

What Foods Should I Avoid When Pregnant?

1. Deli Meats

Deli meats can be contaminated with listeria, which is a bacteria that causes flu-like symptoms. While relatively rare, pregnant women often have diminished immune system function, which means they’re more susceptible to listeria infections. Avoid deli meat or simply cook it to remove the risk.

2. Certain Types of Fish

Some species, like swordfish and mackerel, contain high levels of mercury, which is toxic to the nervous system. If you want to eat fish, consume it in the proper amount. For instance, eating about eight to 12 ounces of salmon per week provides pregnant women with an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and vitamins, which all support fetal health.

3. Undercooked Meats

Some undercooked meats may carry a parasite called toxoplasmosis, which causes an illness with symptoms similar to the flu. Since the sickness can be harmful to unborn babies, pregnant women are encouraged to fully cook their meats so that no pink remains.

4. Raw Eggs

While cooked eggs are nutritious, pregnant women should avoid recipes that call for raw eggs because they may contain harmful bacteria. Specialists at fertility clinics recommend that pregnant women stay away from raw cookie dough, eggnog, mousse, and tiramisu.

If you’d like additional tips on how you can protect your baby during pregnancy, contact the knowledgeable team at IVF HAWAII in Honolulu. Led by board-certified OB-GYN Dr. Benton Chun, this fertility clinic offers a wide range of services to help couples with infertility issues conceive and carry a healthy baby to full term. Read patient testimonials online, or call (808) 538-6655 to schedule an appointment at this fertility clinic.