The Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy: Get The Facts Here.

By: Roger Noonan Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Pregnancy is a wonderful time for the expectant mother as she feels a new life growing within her. However there are responsibilities that go with the pregnancy that some mothers don't take seriously, namely the nutrition that her baby requires from her in order to grow and develop fully in the womb. A good knowledge of the proper nutrition involves understanding what foods to avoid during pregnancy and what foods are essential for a good healthy pregnancy.

A proper pregnancy diet will contain adequate amounts of folic acid, vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and fats, all sourced from a combination of wholesome natural foods and prenatal supplements prescribed by your doctor. A diet such as this will ensure normal fetal growth and development, healthy uterine functions, a healthy placenta and amniotic fluid. It will also ensure that the mother has the energy required to move around as her body increases in size and the energy required for the pending birth. Unfortunately far too many pregnancy diets are inadequate, which leads to increased possibilities of birth defects such as developmental disorders, low birth weight, disability, miscarriage and mortality.

A good knowledge of the foods to avoid during pregnancy will go a long way in reducing the possibilities of birth defects. Some of the foods to avoid are as follows:

Seafood is an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids and proteins. Protein is essential for cell wall development, while omega 3 fatty acids are necessary for fetal brain, nerve and visual development. However, as a responsible mother, you also need to be aware of the types of seafood to avoid. Large fish like shark, marlin, king mackerel and swordfish, can contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to the development of the fetus's nervous system. Also avoid raw shellfish like oysters, mussels and clams, as they can contain algae-borne and sea-borne bacteria that can cause infection. Also, avoid sushi for the duration of the pregnancy, as raw fish can contain listeria, a bacterium that can cause food poisoning.

Alcohol needs to be on the top of your list of foods to avoid during pregnancy. Alcohol abuse can lead to numerous disorders including behavioural difficulties and brain damage. A lot of people say that a glass of wine or beer will do no harm but do we know that for sure?? For the sake of your unborn child, stay away from alcohol for the duration of your pregnancy.

Avoid unpasteurised dairy foods as they can contain salmonella and listeria. It's best to avoid unpasteurised milk, raw eggs, mayonnaise and salad dressings made from mayonnaise. Also avoid soft cheeses as these are also made from unpasteurised milk, such as feta, brie, camembert, blue cheese, Mexican style cheeses such as blanco, fresco and panela.

Raw meats can contain coli form and toxoplasmosis, and deli-style meat can contain listeria. It's best to avoid these types of meat, or cook well if necessary.

Your baby deserves the best possible start in life. With a little research on foods to avoid during pregnancy, you can be confident that you are doing everything possible to give your baby that start in life it deserves.

Article Source: ABC Article Directory

About The Author: As an expectant mother it's your responsibility to learn about foods to avoid during pregnancy. <= = click the link NOW! Also make sure you check out this fantastic article on pregnancy nutrition advice.