Nutrition in pregnancy, here are what foods to avoid
Pregnancy is a unique and special time for the ‘expectant’ woman, but in order to live these nine months to the fullest, a few extra cautions are needed, especially on nutrition. We have to think that everything we ingest goes to our child. Proper nutrition therefore is of paramount importance for its growth.
Nutrition in pregnancy, no to false myths
Not only do we need to pay attention to the quantity of food ingested-let’s dispel false myths such as eating for two-but especially to the quality and safety of the food. During pregnancy, women undergo a series of hormonal changes with lowered immune defenses, resulting in reduced resistance to infectious diseases. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the cooking of food and the quality and freshness of products.
Hidden dangers in food
There are some food-related diseases that if taken during pregnancy can bring very serious problems to the baby we are carrying such as fetal malformation or miscarriage, so we need to be very careful and follow a few simple rules.
Some women are immune to toxoplasmosis, they therefore will be able to eat more foods than those who are not. But in addition to toxoplasmosis (potentially present in some raw foods), one must beware of some bacteria that are transmitted through food, such as salmonella, listeria, brucellosis and many others.
What foods to avoid in pregnancy
This is not to say that we need to be terrified throughout our pregnancy with the nightmare of what we eat, but simply take a few extra precautions. Let’s briefly see what foods to avoid during pregnancy.
Raw or undercooked meat. It can carry toxoplasmosis and salmonella, so it is okay to consume it but cook it very well to eliminate the risk. Avoid tartare, carpaccio, ground meat and all raw meats.
Sausages. The same applies to undercooked meat. Therefore, avoid raw ham, smoked meat, bresaola, salami. Cooked ham or bologna may be eaten instead.
Raw or undercooked fish. It is a potential carrier of salmonella and listeria. For this reason, avoid sushi, tartare. Also pay attention to crustaceans and shellfish, which should be eaten only cooked and very fresh. Consumption of fish such as tuna, swordfish, grouper and sea bass should also be moderated because they may contain mercury.
Raw eggs. As with meat and fish, they should only be consumed cooked. Also beware of foods that may contain raw eggs such as tiramisu, homemade mayonnaise, eggnog and various sauces.
Soft cheeses and raw milk. Beware especially of cheeses that are poorly preserved or have mold such as brie, or gorgonzola. Absolutely not recommended to drink unpasteurized or freshly milked raw milk.
Raw fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are essential in our diet, but during pregnancy if eaten raw you have to wash them very well with amuchina or baking soda and then rinse them very well. At restaurants avoid salad or fruit salad because it is unlikely to be washed with these precautions. Green light instead for cooked vegetables.
Spirits. Alcohol in general and especially super alcohol is prohibited during pregnancy. In fact, the intake of hard liquor during pregnancy has been shown to predispose to fetal malformations, mental retardation, infant growth retardation, and birth weight loss. Some gynecologists give permission to have a glass of wine once in a while, but since it is not known precisely what the harmless amount of alcohol is, all in all it is better to avoid wine as well, especially in the first trimester, a period when the organs of the unborn child are being formed.
Coffee, tea. Coffee and tea can be consumed but in moderation, not exceeding two coffees or two cups of tea per day. We also reduce caffeinated drinks for the same reason. Avoid the energy ones(energy drinks) that are bad for mom and baby.
Condiments. Seasonings should not be overdone. Reduce salt and do not use too many spices if the gastrointestinal tract is more sensitive.
Sugars. Limit sugars, especially sugar added to foods.
With all the precautions indicated, nutrition in pregnancy can be healthy, tasty and balanced, rich in energy-giving grains, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, fruits.
And don’t forget to drink at least one and a half/two liters of water every day, which is always helpful for hydration.
Paola Dongo
