Certain foods are potentially dangerous to the pregnant woman, because they might contain toxins, allergens (that would cause an allergic reaction) or harmful bacteria. These could penetrate the foetus’s bloodstream via the placenta.
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In most cases these foods are safe if you obtain them from a reliable source:
Raw or soft-boiled eggs can be contaminated with salmonella – bacteria that cause food poisoning. Cooking eggs thoroughly and not eating foods that contain raw eggs, like homemade mayonnaise, royal icing or meringue, can avoid illness.
Raw meat or undercooked poultry might contain salmonella or the toxoplasmosis parasite. This parasite can cause damage to the foetus if a woman is infected for the first time during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Avoid infection by cooking meat thoroughly, washing your hands after handling meat and keeping meat refrigerated. Take special care of burgers and sausages – these might appear cooked but can be raw on the inside.
Raw seafood, like sushi might be contaminated with tapeworms or other parasites. Freezing and sufficient cooking usually kill the worms. Chemical contamination can also be a problem in fish. Generally, ocean fish is safer than the fresh water varieties.
Peanuts shouldn’t be a problem, unless you, the baby’s father or one of your previous children has had an allergic reaction to it. Remember that if you are allergic to peanuts, you also should avoid peanut butter. Always check the list of ingredients of products to check for traces of nuts. Ask the waiter at the restaurant what menu items include peanuts before ordering.
Foods containing artificial sweeteners, consumed in moderate amounts are usually safe. Some studies suggest that saccharin has detrimental effects on the development of the foetus. Luckily, this sweetener is not used that often anymore and the substitute, aspartame, seems not to be too much of a problem.
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