Foods and Drinks to Be Avoided in a Diet Plan for Pregnancy

If you are one of those expectant mothers who are now conscious of what they eat, a diet plan for pregnancy can come in handy. Through this, you can keep track of what you are eating and you can be assured that you get the right amount of vitamins and nutrients if you follow your diet plan. In devising one, you must know what foods to eat and what to avoid. Because a developing baby is delicate and vulnerable, you have to be mindful of what you eat so as not to harm your baby. However, you have to pay close attention to the food that you consume. There might be times that you eat certain meat or fish that you think you are already getting the proper nutrients when in fact you are not. Choosing the correct type of food plays an important role in your diet.

Fish should be included in a diet plan for pregnancy because it contains omega 3 fatty acids and iron beneficial for pregnant mothers and growing babies. However, there are certain types of fish that you should avoid due to high content of mercury and other pollutants. Swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish and shark are those types of fish that you should exclude from your diet. Sushi, oysters and raw fish should also be avoided because they may have harmful bacteria. On the other hand, fish such as mahi mahi and wild salmon are good options.

Milk and dairy products are also included in the diet plan. However, some products should be avoided because of harmful bacteria. Listeria is a harmful bacterium that can sometimes be found in food items. Soft cheeses stored in the refrigerator can contain Listeria so you should avoid eating this. Hot dogs and cold cuts should also be avoided because of possible Listeria contamination. Another harmful bacterium found in food is salmonella. Raw eggs should be avoided as these may contain this bacterium. It is also found in meat that is not well cooked. In order to avoid this, beef and other meats should be cooked well, that is, until no pinkish color can be seen.

Alcohol is a big no-no in a diet plan for pregnancy. It affects the baby's brain and overall growth. Birth defects can happen because of alcohol so there should be complete avoidance. Coffee intake on the other hand is still debatable up to date. More than a cup of coffee per day may harm the baby. Some believe that caffeine intake of less than a cup per day is not harmful although studies show that there is minimal risk to the fetus. It is best that you avoid it as well. Instead of these drinks, fruit juices and milk are greatly suggested. Also avoid processed foods and unhealthy fats and oils so that you will have a healthy body and a healthy baby.