Maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy is essential to ensure the proper development of the baby and take care of the mother's health. However, it is important to be informed about certain foods that should be avoided or consumed with caution to avoid the risk of foodborne infections or adverse effects on the fetus.
Why avoid raw foods during pregnancy?
Consumption raw or undercooked foods such as fish, meat, vegetables or fruits can be a risk during pregnancy. These foods could contain bacteria y parasites and toxoplasmosis and listeriosis, infection with which can be dangerous for the development of the baby. Below, we explore more about these diseases:
Toxoplasmosis
La toxoplasmosis It is a disease caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which is commonly found in raw or undercooked meats and cat feces. This infection can cross the placenta, causing serious damage to the fetus' nervous system, such as Mental retardation, loss of vision o hearing.
listeriosis
La listeriosis is another disease that mainly affects pregnant women. It is caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, which can be found in unpasteurized dairy products, processed meat products, and smoked foods. It can cause spontaneous abortions, severe infections in the newborn or even the fetal death.
Foods to avoid or limit
During pregnancy, there is a specific list of foods that should be avoided or treated with special care to reduce risks:
- Raw seafood such as oysters, clams and ceviche due to the presence of bacteria y parasites.
- Soft cheeses such as Brie, Camembert or blue cheeses, unless they are made from pasteurized milk.
- Raw or undercooked meats, including steak tartare.
- Raw vegetables and fruits that have not been properly washed.
- Unpasteurized dairy products and derivatives such as homemade ice cream.
- Fish with high content of mercury such as swordfish, shark and bluefin tuna.
Measures to consume food safely
While some foods may pose a risk, taking certain safety measures can help reducir the chances of infections:
- proper cooking: Make sure meats and seafood reach an internal temperature of at least 70°C to kill bacteria y parasites.
- Freezing: Freeze foods such as raw fish at -20°C for at least 48 hours before consumption.
- Care recommendations: Wash fruits and vegetables with drinking water and use food disinfectants if necessary.
- Avoid cross contamination: Keep raw and cooked foods separate and use clean utensils.
Other foods that require caution
In addition to raw foods, there are others that should limit in the diet of pregnant women due to their potential risks:
- Caffeinated drinks: Excessive caffeine consumption may increase the risk of miscarriages or low birth weight.
- Liver: It contains high levels of vitamin A, which in excess can be harmful to the fetus.
- raw eggs: Products such as homemade mayonnaise or tiramisu may contain eggs contaminated with salmonela if they are not cooked properly.
Healthy options during pregnancy
Maintaining a balanced and safe diet is essential. Here are some recommendations for a healthy diet. adequate nutrition During pregnancy:
- Fruits and vegetables: Eat them daily, but make sure they are well washed or cooked.
- Cooked fish: Includes options like salmon, low in mercury and rich in omega-3.
- Pasteurized dairy: Prefers yogurt and hard cheeses like cheddar.
- lean proteins: Choose well-cooked meats, legumes and nuts.
Monitoring your diet during pregnancy not only protects your baby, but also encourages healthy development. Always consult with your doctor or a specialized nutritionist to to adapt your diet to your specific needs and ensure the safety of the foods you eat.