Pregnancy is the most special moment in a woman’s life. It is that moment when everybody is extra careful about the expecting mother specially when it comes to food. The food consumed by the mother can directly affect the health of the child. Her diet plays a crucial role for the baby’s well being. Below are the foods to avoid during pregnancy.
High Mercury Fish
Large fish contain high level of mercury which is harmful for infants. It can cause damage to the brain and the nervous system. Pregnant women are strictly advised to avoid the intake of large fish like tuna, shark, swordfish and marlin. You can instead go for fresh water ones like shrimp, salmon and tilapia which contain low amount of mercury. However, raw/undercooked food like sushi should be avoided.
Papaya
One of the important foods to avoid during pregnancy is papaya. It is said to stimulate an abortion, hence is dangerous to consume during pregnancy. Raw and unripe papaya contains a substance called latex, which causes uterine contractions. Papain and pepsin contents in papaya restricts fetal growth. It is therefore advised to strictly avoid papaya during pregnancy.
Pineapple
Pineapple contains a compound called bromelain, which can cause softening of the cervix leading to unsuccessful labor to miscarriage. It is believed that pineapple can get your body heated up rapidly which can cause abortion or premature birth.
Eggplant/Brinjal
Eggplant or brinjal is a common food eaten in almost all households. It is considered to be fundamental in treating amenorrhea and premenstrual disorder. Consequently, on this premise it is advisable not to consume brinjal amid pregnancy.
Sesame Seeds
One of the foods to avoid during pregnancy is sesame seeds. Dry sesame seeds were earlier used as a medicine for causing abortion. Sesame seeds stimulate the uterine muscle thus causing an expulsion of the fertilized ovum. It is advisable to avoid it during the first three crucial months of pregnancy. Whereas dry nuts such as almonds, raisins, walnut and groundnut are safe to consume in moderation.
Fennel and Fenugreek Seeds
You can use small quantity of fennel and fenugreek seeds for taste, but eating it consistently in large amount should be avoided. These seeds contain high measures of phytoestrogens, which fortifies the compression of the uterine. Fennel and fenugreek seeds help to purify the uterus and also have the potential to stimulate menstruation.
Unpasteurized Milk and its products
Milk should be boiled before consuming as it kills germs and prevents disease causing microbes which can be harmful for the growth of the baby. Milk is definitely important but it should be pasteurized.
Refined Flour Products
Avoid consuming foods made from refined flour like bread, noodles, pasta, cookies and pizza. Likewise, maintain distance from packaged and ready to eat food items like pickles, sauces, chutneys, as they have preservatives and chemicals to increase their shelf life. These can cause harm to the growing baby.
Grapes
Pregnant women should keep away from grapes, particularly amid the last phases of conception. This is because grapes are found to hike up your body temperature prompting undesirable complexities. Grapes also contain a compound called resveratrol that can pose numerous difficulties by unbalancing the hormones of a pregnant women. Over usage of grapes has additionally been connected to stomach related problems and difficulties.