A healthy varied diet is recommended in pregnancy including plenty of fruit, vegetables, carbohydrates, protein and dairy.You do not need to eat for two, but you may need to have regular healthy snacks as your body works to support the growing baby. There are some foods that you should avoid during pregnancy because they could make you unwell or harm your baby. Guidance around which foods to avoid can change as new evidence or research is found.If you are a vegetarian it is important to eat foods that top up your iron levels, such as brown bread, beans and green leafy vegetables. Dairy foods, or fortified dairy alternatives are an important source of protein, vitamin B12, calcium and zinc.
Foods and drinks to avoid in pregnancy
Moringa tea, used by different cultures for blood cleansing and waste excretion, contains dangerous chemicals from the moringa root, bark and flowers which can make the uterus to contract prematurely (too early).Some of the spices in chai tea can be harmful in pregnancy. Cloves can lead to seizures and intestinal (gut) bleeding when over-consumed. Chamomile can cause miscarriages.Quinine, found in in Indian tonic water, traditionally used to treat leg cramps and malaria, can cause birth defects.Nourishment drinks, such as Caribbean guinness and peanut punch is not suitable for pregnant/nursing people. These drinks contain fortified vitamins and minerals which may exceed the daily recommended intake values.Liver can damage the unborn baby’s eyes and used in excess may lead to miscarriage, premature labour and severe eczema. Liver is traditionally used in pepper soup.Sweet rice, made as a traditional dish in some cultures can lead to gestational diabetes. Sweet dishes such as this should be eaten in moderation.A diet high in red meat and saturated fat, can reduce the production of platelets, leading to a condition known as thrombocytopenia.
A healthy varied diet is recommended in pregnancy including plenty of fruit, vegetables, carbohydrates, protein and dairy.
You do not need to eat for two, but you may need to have regular healthy snacks as your body works to support the growing baby. There are some foods that you should avoid during pregnancy because they could make you unwell or harm your baby. Guidance around which foods to avoid can change as new evidence or research is found.
If you are a vegetarian it is important to eat foods that top up your iron levels, such as brown bread, beans and green leafy vegetables. Dairy foods, or fortified dairy alternatives are an important source of protein, vitamin B12, calcium and zinc.
