Eating healthy is a habit that should be picked up whether pregnant or not, however, it is significantly important to say that while pregnant, there are foods that should be kept away altogether. We compiled a list of foods (in no particular order) that should and shouldn’t be eaten when pregnant.
Food to Eat:
1. Eggs – an excellent source of protein for you and your baby.
In addition to providing you with quality protein necessary for pregnancy eggs also contains over 12 vitamins and mineral.
Plus they are cheap, easy to make and quick. Can’t ask for more!
- Salmon – Helps increase the level of omega-3 fats in your body.
Omega-3 helps with the development of your baby and can also boost your mood. Rich in high-quality protein and low in amounts of mercury, which can prove harmful for your baby. Salmon is a must-eat during pregnancy! - Beans – Source of Fiber
During pregnancy, your intestinal track slows down and thus may result in constipation or hemorrhoids. To avoid this, you should consume tons of fiber. Not only are beans rich in fiber but they are also great sources of iron, zinc and calcium. - Greek Yoghurt – Calcium and protein providers
One of our favorite pregnancy food items, Greek yogurt has double the amount of protein compared to regular yogurt and is a rich source of calcium which is essential for the growth and development of bones in your baby’s body. - Colorful fruits and veggies –Different benefit for each different color
Consuming different fruits and vegetables of different colors like green, red, yellow, white, purple etc maintains a balanced diet and ensures that your get a variety of nutrients beneficial for you and your baby.
Foods NOT to eat:
- Sushi – contains illness-inducing parasites
Cooked: Yes. Raw: No.
Your immune system is suppressed during pregnancy, so it is easier to get sick from food.
Eating raw sushi is not recommended during pregnancy. It can lead to symptoms that may result in a minor sickness or severe enough to cause miscarriage or shun fetal growth. - Unpasteurized cheeses – may contain listeria
Avoid raw milk and dairy products made from unpasteurized milk, such as Brie, feta, Camembert, Roquefort, blue-veined, queso blanco, queso fresco, and queso Panela. They contain listeria which is harmful for the baby. - Alcohol – Hinders growth and development
Alcohol is an absolute no-no during pregnancy. Consume less or more, no level of alcohol consumption is considered safe.
Alcohol deprives the cells of nutrients and oxygen thus hindering normal development. It has permanent devastating effects on intellectual abilities and physical growth.
