Food risks

Listeriosis

Listeria bacterial  infection is quite rare, however it can be extremely dangerous for a developing foetus.  The listeria bacteria can develop in certain foodstuffs (some seafood, dairy products and butcher's produce). 

Contraction of the bacteria is not particularly dangerous for the mother, however if the unborn child is exposed to the bacteria, then in the majority of cases, death will occur and in those surviving, extreme body and organ wasting is common.

Toxoplasmosis

See this article for a detailed discussion of toxoplasmosis.

Precautions

Hygiene is the main key, along with avoidance of certain foods. 

• Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly.

• Wash hands often and especially before handling food.

• Clean out the refrigerator regularly with a bleach based solution.

• Do not eat leftovers after 24 Hours.

• Heat leftovers to piping hot before consuming.

• Do not eat raw meats.

• Do not do the gardening without gloves.

• Do not go near a cat litter.

• Avoid unprocessed milk.

• Avoid soft cheeses based on non-pasteurised milk or blue cheeses.

• Do not eat the crust of a cheese.

• Do not eat raw vegetable sprouts (clover, mung bean, bean sprouts).

• Avoid raw shellfish and fish eggs (taramasalata).

• Cook all meats and eggs right through.

• Avoid butcher's ham, pâté and other in-store prepared foods.

• Pay extra attention to sell-by-dates on packaging.

• Minimise consumption of fish that may hold high mercury levels (swordfish, shark).

• Foods that have high levels of vitamin A (like liver) should only be consumed on an occasional basis.

• Avoid herbal teas and supplements.

Poisons

Caffeine

It is recommended to severely limit (or eliminate completely) caffeine intake during a pregnancy.  Beyond 5 strong cups per day can be a direct risk to the health of the baby.

Alcohol

See this article for a detailed discussion of alcohol during pregnancy.

Tobacco

See this article for a detailed discussion of smoking during pregnancy.

ALSO IN THIS CHAPTER:  

1. Folic Acid - A detailed look at this B vitamin that is vital for a healthy pregnancy along with a detailed listing of food sources rich in this substance.

2a. Minerals and Trace Elements (Calcium & Magnesium) - A roundup of minerals and trace elements that play an important role in a pregnancy.

2b. Minerals and Trace Elements (Iron, Manganese & Zinc) - A roundup of minerals and trace elements that play an important role in a pregnancy.

3. Vitamins - A guide to how various vitamins are used during a pregnancy with a guide to which foods are good sources of these vitamins.

4. Nutrients - An overview of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, explaining the role of each and which foods they can be found in.

5. Foods to avoid - What should be avoided when pregnant.  An explanation of risky things to take into the body and share with baby during pregnancy.