Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy
One of the most important aspects of managing pregnancy is diet; it is crucial to know what to eat, and which foods to avoid during pregnancy. The best rule of thumb is to consume a variety of foods that will contribute much needed nutrients to the body of both the mother and the fetus. There are a number of foods to avoid during pregnancy because they are either unhealthy or will deliver “empty” calories. Here is a brief outline of some of these items.
Drugs. Ok, ok, so this is not a food. Still, no list of foods to avoid during pregnancy would be complete without mentioning these non-foods. Certainly, one of the most damaging things anyone can take into their body while pregnant is a drug like nicotine or cocaine. Milder drugs such as alcohol and caffeine should be avoided as well.
Excess Salt. Even though salt is necessary for a well-functioning body, we as a society generally consume too much of it. This can lead to high blood pressure and other serious health risks. However, it makes this list of foods to avoid during pregnancy for a different reason–water retention. Salt causes the body to hold in water. This is already an issue for pregnant women; if they consume excess salt, the problem can be exacerbated, leading to conditions like swollen ankles.
Junk Food. A mainstay on the list of foods to avoid during pregnancy and of foods to avoid during the rest of your life! These high-calorie, low-nutrient foods will cause you to gain weight but will not provide the necessary energy to get you through your day. Stay away from junk food and stick with fruit snacks or other healthy fare. It is fine to indulge once in a while, however. Treat yourself to some gourmet ice cream or a fancy pastry to reward yourself for your disciple.
Fried Food. These tasty delights are also foods to avoid during pregnancy. They will be packing on the calories, salt, and general unhealthiness. Try to stay away from fried foods in favor of grilled or baked items. If you must fry, go for high quality vegetable oil instead of butter or margarine.
100% Whole Milk. Calcium is even more important for pregnant women, and so you may be consuming more milk than usual. This is great, but why not switch from whole milk to 1%, 2%, or even skim milk? This will help you get the calcium and vitamin D without the fat. Also, there are other sources of calcium available. And yes, even though whole milk is one of our foods to avoid during pregnancy some ice cream is just fine every once and again.
Taking care of yourself by eating a well-balanced diet is a great way to have a successful pregnancy. It is usually a good idea to focus on the positives by finding foods you enjoy eating and getting plenty of those while also experimenting with new ones. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that not all foods that we enjoy are good for us. The above foods to avoid during pregnancy may taste delicious, but in the end will not support your goal of having a healthy, safe pregnancy.