Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy

These are the foods to avoid during pregnancy. Remember everything that goes into your mouth goes right into your developing baby!

1. Mercury-High Fish
Certain types of fish are very high in mercury, mainly swordfish, mackerel and shark.The FDA also recommends only one serving of canned tuna each week for the same reason. Mercury is a dangerous heavy metal that's toxic to both you and your baby.

2. Undercooked Meats and Nitrates
Undercooked meat can have bacteria and parasites that could seriously effect your growing child. Also, avoid hot dogs, bacon and most sandwich meats since they are chocked full of nitrates.

3. Raw Fish, Shellfish and Sushi
Eating raw fish could possibly transmit tapeworms or other parasites. A tapeworm can suck nutrients away and therefore deprive your developing child.

4. Raw or Undercooked Eggs and Soft Cheese
As with undercooked meat, soft cheese and raw eggs can carry bacteria. Be sure to thoroughly cook any egg products before eating them.

5. Alfalfa and Other Raw Sprouts
The way in which most sprouts are grown is a great breeding ground for bacteria. Healthy adults might be able to resist the bacteria, but you don't want to take a chance with your baby. Even if you grow your own, avoid alfalfa sprouts since they contain a natural toxin.

6. Left-Out Food
In general, don't eat any food that has been sitting out on a counter or buffet table. The more something sits around and warms to room temperature, the more possibility there is that unfriendly organisms can grow in it.

7. Junk Food
Your baby must get all its nutrients from you. Just taking vitamins isn't enough. You need to be full of good nutrition. If you fill up on doritos, you won't have any room left for the foods that can really help your baby grow strong, healthy and beautiful.