Foods You Should Avoid During Pregnancy

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Avoiding certain foods during pregnancy helps to prevent risks like bacterial infections (listeria, salmonella), high mercury exposure, and toxoplasmosis that could harm foetal development.

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Raw or undercooked meat can carry toxoplasma or other parasites, potentially causing miscarriage or birth defects. 

Raw or Undercooked Meat

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Fish like shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish contain high mercury levels that impair foetal brain and nervous system development.

High-Mercury Fish

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Raw fish or shellfish, including sushi and oysters, have risks of bacterial contamination like vibrio or parasites, leading to foodborne illness.

Raw Fish and Sushi

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Unpasteurised milk, soft cheeses and related products may have listeria bacteria, which crosses the placenta and risks stillbirth. 

Unpasteurised Dairy

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Liver products are high in vitamin A (retinol), excess of which can cause birth defects. Limit to small amounts or choose alternatives.

Liver and Organ Meats

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Foods with raw eggs, such as homemade mayonnaise, cookie dough, or certain dressings, have a salmonella risk, which can cause severe dehydration and preterm labour.

Raw Eggs

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Unheated deli meats, hot dogs, and pates can have listeria, leading to miscarriage or developmental issues in the baby. Reheat until steaming hot before eating.

Deli Meats

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