Foods and Beverages To Avoid During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a wonderful, exciting time for many women. However, there are a lot of worries that can occur during this nine-month period as well. At Columbus Women’s Care, we understand the importance of taking care of yourself to, in turn, take good care of your growing baby. Women who visit our office and talk with our team of professionals often have a lot of questions about the do’s and don’ts of pregnancy, including what to avoid when it comes to foods and beverages. Canal Winchester, OH, area women are encouraged to learn more about the changes in their eating habits that can benefit themselves and their babies!

What Foods and Beverages Should I Avoid During Pregnancy?

Be mindful of the foods and beverages that you consume while you are pregnant, as they can have a direct impact on both your and your unborn baby’s health. Here are some common things to avoid during pregnancy:

• Alcohol. It is strongly recommended that you avoid consuming any amount of alcohol while you are pregnant, as this can increase your risk of issues, including birth defects and miscarriage. Avoid all alcoholic drinks when pregnant.
• Unpasteurized milk and cheese. The pasteurization process is done to kill off potentially harmful bacteria that are often found in dairy products. This increases your risk of listeriosis if consumed.
• Raw and undercooked meats. This includes poultry, fish, shellfish, and eggs. These may contain harmful bacteria that can lead to food poisoning, so eat these meats only when cooked thoroughly.
• Caffeine. You can increase your risk of a low birth weight baby by consuming too much caffeine during your pregnancy. Eliminate or at least limit your caffeine intake to no more than two cups of coffee, soda, or other caffeinated beverages.

These are just some of the foods and beverages that should be avoided while pregnant. If you have any questions about what you should and should not eat during your pregnancy, please do not hesitate to talk with one of our professionals here at Columbus Women’s Care. Call 614-755-4200 to request a consultation visit and initial evaluation during your pregnancy.