Pregnancy, which is also known as gestation in humans is a very crucial stage in a woman’s life. Proper care should be taken in order to give birth to a healthy baby. Only a proper diet can ensure the safe arrival of a baby. Woman who are pregnant are often advised on what to eat and the quantity of food is often doubled. However, most of the people forget to mention what is not advisable to consume during this critical stage. Well, in this post I am going to share my views on food that a pregnant lady should not be offered. Wrong food can become detrimental for a baby’s survival.

Often, it is good to stick to food rich in vitamins and minerals. Also, it is appropriate to stick to a daily schedule of taking health and dietary supplements on time and without fail. Taking supplements can cover up for any lag in the diet or food consumed. After all, a fetus draws its nutrition directly from her/his mother.

Caffeinated Beverages: Usually it is best to avoid caffeinated drink such a tea or coffee. If you completely cannot avoid it, it is best to limit its consumption and better to have these drinks in small quantities. Also, soft drinks are a big no-no during pregnancy. It is believed that these drinks can negatively affect the growth of the fetus and may make a fetus underweight when born.

Dairy and Milk Products:  It is highly unsuitable to consume cold unpasteurized milk during pregnancy. Unpasteurized milk contains lethal bacteria, which can cause discomfort to the pregnancy lady. 

Fruits: Fruits like pineapple and ripe papaya are best avoided altogether. Papaya can cause early contraction of the uterus which can lead premature baby birth. Pineapple is strictly a forbidden fruit during pregnancy, since it makes the cervix softer and cause premature labor pains, which can lead to complications.

Fish: There is saying that eating fish can make people sharp and intelligent. However, certain fishes are best avoided during pregnancy. Fishes such as Swordfish or Shark contains mercury and hence can prove more harmful than useful during pregnancy. Also, canned fish should also be saved for post pregnancy diet.

Uncooked Non-Veg Items: Uncooked eggs are not considered good during pregnancy. It contains bacteria which can lead to unwanted complications. Uncooked or partially cooked red is also not meant for pregnant ladies. It contains bacteria which is called ‘Listeria’, which can be detrimental for the proper growth of the baby. Food for a pregnant lady should be cooked with utmost care and should be hygienic.

All Purpose Flour (Maida): White flour, also known as Maida or all purpose flour is okay for normal consumption. However, the food items prepared using white flour should be consumed in limited quantities. It is best to stay away from it completely if possible. Foods which are too sweet are also something that should not be eaten in large quantities. It can lead to weight gain and may trigger gestational diabetes.

The above list of food items should be avoided during pregnancy. However, it is always good to check with your medical practitioner, gynecologist, and dietitian. Some edible items can trigger false labor pain and can lead to premature birth and can even lead to miscarriage. In addition, it is best to go for a walk regularly, however, if you are advised for complete bed rest by your doctor, do so.