10 Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of change in a woman’s body. Changes occur on a chemical, physical and hormonal level. These changes make certain food items dangerous to the mother as well as the foetus and these should not be consumed.
10 Common Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy
#1 Papaya
Papaya can be dangerous to the health of the foetus., Credits: Freepik
There is a hard no on the consumption of papaya by pregnant mothers. There are two ways papaya can harm the body. The first one is that papaya is rich in two enzymes called papain and pepsin. These enzymes have a harmful effect on the foetus and can cause birth defects.
The second aspect is the presence of latex which causes uterine contractions. These uterine contractions are very dangerous and can lead to a miscarriage.
#2 Aloe Vera Juice
Many people in the world use aloe vera because of its benefits to the skin but aloe vera has a harmful effect on the foetus and the mother. Aloe vera causes uterine contractions which are harmful to the baby. In addition to this, it can also cause severe nausea and vomiting which affects the overall health and electrolyte balance of the mother.
#3 Uncooked Eggs
Food items which contain raw eggs should be avoided. Credits: Pexels
Uncooked eggs or raw eggs are used in many food preparations. Uncooked eggs have a high chance of containing the salmonella virus. This virus can cause severe complications for a pregnant woman.
Although, consuming cooked eggs is allowed and most women use them in their pregnancy diet uncooked eggs are not worth the risk.
Popular food items which contain raw eggs are:
Mayonnaise
Salad topping and dressing
Deserts such as tiramisu mousse and cake icing
#4 Tulsi Leaves
Many of us use tulsi leaves when we are suffering from throat problems. Some system’s of medicine even recommend it as an immunity booster but during pregnancy, tulsi should not be consumed. Avoid eating tulsi leaves when you are pregnant.
#5 Fennel
Fennel seeds are often consumed by various people but their consumption can be harmful to pregnant women. Fennel seeds contain phytoestrogens which can cause uterine cramping.
Experts suggest that small quantities once in a while can be ingested but the recommendation is to avoid eating it through the pregnancy.
#6 Grapes
Grapes contain a chemical called resveratrol. Resveratrol can have an effect on the hormones present in the body and lead to a hormonal imbalance. A hormonal imbalance can lead to numerous difficulties. Grapes are also linked with increase in body temperature which can also cause discomfort.
#7 Pineapple
Pineapples should only be eaten after consulting a doctor., Credits: Pxhere
Pineapple is a complicated fruit when it comes to pregnancy. It is used as a labour inducing item by many people when the due date approaches. However, in the first or second trimester, the same labour inducing ability can lead to a miscarriage.
Pineapple induces labour because it contains an enzyme called bromelain enzyme which dilutes the cervix. If done at the wrong time then dilution of the cervix can be fatal for the foetus. Only consume pineapple near your due date after consulting your doctor. Do not eat it on your own.
#8 Brinjal
Brinjal, which is also known as eggplant should be avoided during pregnancy. Eggplants can lead to severe acidity in pregnant women.
This acidity causes a lot of discomfort and can also lead to complications.
#9 Sea Food
Large fish contain high amounts of mercury., Credits: Pikist
It is advised not to consume seafood during pregnancy because many types of fish and other aquatic animals contain mercury in high doses. Mercury is very dangerous for the foetus as well as infants. It can lead to brain disorders. Pregnant women should not consume seafood.
#10 Packaged Food
Most packaged food items contain preservatives. Preservatives are substances which are added to products to ensure that the product does not decompose. They are not harmful to adults but some of these can be harmful to a growing foetus and should be avoided.
Takeaway
There are food items which have the ability to cause complications during your pregnancy and have to be avoided. If you are doubtful about certain food items then consider your doctor before consuming them. Your diet plays a very important role in your pregnancy.