Avoid raw meat and fish
When you are pregnant, your immune system is affected, and therefore the risk of infections such as toxoplasmosis and listeria is greater.
Pay special attention to:
- Steak tartare, carpaccio and other raw beef
- Raw fish such as sushi (unless it has been frozen)
- Cold-smoked salmon and gravlax
These foods may contain bacteria and parasites that can be harmful to the fetus.
Say no to unpasteurized dairy products
Cheese made from unpasteurized milk may contain listeria - a bacterium that can cause serious illness in the fetus.
Stay away from:
- White mold cheeses such as brie and camembert (unless they are pasteurized)
- Blue cheeses such as gorgonzola and roquefort
- Unpasteurized milk and cream
If in doubt, always read the packaging – and ask if you are at a restaurant.
Be careful with liver and liver pate
Liver contains a lot of vitamin A, and too much vitamin A can harm the development of the fetus.
This applies to both fresh liver and large quantities of liver pate. A small piece now and then is not dangerous, but it should not be a regular part of your diet.
Avoid certain fish with high mercury content
Some types of fish naturally contain high levels of mercury, which can affect the fetal nervous system.
Fish you should avoid:
- Tuna steaks and shark
- Pike, perch and zander (especially from fresh water)
- Large predatory fish in general
However, you are allowed to eat canned tuna - just stick to a maximum of one can per week.
Alcohol should be completely avoided
There is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Even small amounts can increase the risk of birth defects.
The safest and most secure solution is therefore to completely avoid alcohol throughout the entire pregnancy.
Limit caffeine intake
Large amounts of caffeine can increase the risk of miscarriage and low birth weight.
Pregnant women are advised to keep their caffeine intake below 300 mg daily, which is about 3 cups of coffee. Remember that tea, cola, and energy drinks also contain caffeine.
Be careful with licorice
Liquorice extract can affect blood pressure and fetal development, especially if you eat large quantities.
A few pieces of licorice now and then are okay, but it should not be a daily habit during pregnancy.
Stick to clean and fresh ingredients
Pregnancy places greater demands on hygiene and food safety.
Always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and avoid foods with visible mold stains. Use clean utensils and store food properly in the fridge.