Being pregnant makes you more conscious of what you put into your body. While most expecting mothers are diligent about avoiding obvious dangers like alcohol and certain medications, some surprising foods can pose risks to the health of both mother and baby. Here are 12 unexpected foods to be cautious of during pregnancy:

This post may contain affiliate links meaning I get commissions for purchases made in this post. Read my disclosure policy here.

Unpasteurized Dairy Products

Harmful bacteria like Listeria can exists in unpasteurized milk products like raw cheese. Listeriosis, caused by Listeria infection, can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening illness in newborns. Expecting mothers would do well to go in for pasteurized dairy products. This will minimize the risk of Listeria contamination and ensure the health and safety of both themselves and their unborn children.

High-Mercury Fish

Certain fish species, including shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, contain elevated levels of mercury, a neurotoxin harmful to fetal development. Mercury can adversely affect the fetus’s developing nervous system, leading to cognitive and developmental delays.

Undercooked Eggs

Raw or undercooked eggs pose a risk of Salmonella contamination, a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. Salmonella infection during pregnancy can be very bad for the mom and baby. It could leade to dehydration, premature labor, or even miscarriage.

Raw Sprouts

Raw sprouts, such as alfalfa, have been linked to outbreaks of foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. These bacteria can be present in the seeds and grow and multiply during sprouting, posing a risk of infection if consumed raw, especially for pregnant women. That’s why it is essential to cook sprouts thoroughly before consuming.

Caffeine

While moderate caffeine intake is generally considered safe during pregnancy, excessive consumption can pose risks. High caffeine levels might increase the chances of miscarriage and low birth weight. Pregnant women should also be mindful of hidden sources of caffeine in foods and beverages like tea, soda, and chocolate, and consider opting for decaffeinated versions or limiting consumption to minimize potential adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes.

Herbal Teas:

While herbal teas are often perceived as natural and harmless, some ingredients may not be safe during pregnancy. Certain herbs found in herbal teas can have uterine-stimulating properties or may affect blood pressure, which can pose risks to the developing fetus. Ingredients like licorice root, for example, should be avoided as they can potentially lead to complications.

Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables

Unwashed fruits and vegetables may harbor harmful bacteria or pesticide residues that could pose risks to the mother and the developing baby during pregnancy. Consuming contaminated produce increases the likelihood of foodborne infections that can cause dehydration and premature labor.

Processed Meats

Processed meats like deli meats and hot dogs can contain Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria. Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria, can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery. Because their immune systems are altered during pregnancy, pregnant women are more vulnerable to contracting Listeria. To minimize the risk, it’s advisable to heat processed meats until steaming hot before consumption, which helps kill any potential bacteria and ensures a safe pregnancy diet.

Soft Cheeses:

Soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and blue cheese can harbor harmful Listeria bacteria are made from unpasteurized milk. Listeria infection during pregnancy poses severe risks, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or illness in newborns. Opting for pasteurized versions of these cheeses significantly reduces the risk of Listeria contamination, ensuring the safety of both the mother and the developing baby.

Excessive Vitamin A

Although vitamin A is crucial for fetal development, overconsumption, especially from supplements or foods like liver, can be harmful during pregnancy. Extra vitamin A intake has been linked to birth defects, including malformations in the central nervous system, heart, and facial structures.

Albacore Tuna

Albacore tuna, while a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, contains higher mercury levels than canned light tuna. Mercury, when consumed in excess during pregnancy, can accumulate in the bloodstream and cross the placenta, potentially harming the developing nervous system of the fetus.

Unripened Papaya

Unripe papaya contains a higher latex concentration than ripe papaya. This latex contains papain, an enzyme with properties similar to prostaglandins, hormones that stimulate uterine contractions. These contractions, if frequent or intense enough, could potentially lead to premature labor or miscarriage.