Foods to Avoid
When You're Pregnant

Swordfish, shark, tilefish, and king mackerel: These fish harbor high levels of mercury, and can damage a growing baby's brain and nervous system. Some types of fish contain lower levels of mercury, such as shrimp, salmon, pollock, catfish, and canned light tuna. According to the FDA, pregnant and nursing woman can eat up to 12 ounces a week of these low mercury level types of fish.

Fish caught in local waters: The State of Vermont issues fish consumption guidelines for all Vermonters, including pregnant/lactating women and children, because of harmful contaminates found in local fish. Please visit the State's website at www.healthvermont.gov/enviro/fish_alert/fish_alert.aspx or call 1-800-439-8550 for detailed information.

Raw and undercooked meat, poultry and fish: Undercooked animal foods may contain a variety of bacteria and viruses including E-Coli. Cook meat and poultry until a meat thermometer shows an internal temp of 160°.

Raw and undercooked eggs: Raw eggs may be contaminated with Salmonella. Some products that may contain raw eggs are hollandaise sauce, mayonnaise, Caesar dressing, homemade ice cream or custard. Always cook eggs until they are not runny.

Hot Dogs and luncheon meats: Deli meats, including ham, turkey, bologna, salami etc... may contain bacteria that cause listeriosis, which can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth or other serious problems. Cook these meats until they are steaming hot, or avoid them all together.

Unpasteurized dairy foods and meat spreads: Some soft cheeses such as Brie, feta, Camembert, Roquefort and some meat pates and meat spreads can also harbor bacteria that cause listeriosis.

Unpasteurized juices: Such as apple cider bought at road stands or in some stores may contain E-Coli or other germs.

Raw vegetable sprouts: Including alfalfa, clover, radish, and mung bean may contain Salmonella and have been the cause of some Salmonella outbreaks.

Liver: Liver contains high levels of vitamin A, as well as toxins. Too much vitamin A consumed can increase the risk of birth defects. Since prenatal vitamins and other food sources contain vitamin A, liver should not be consumed on a regular basis.

Artificial Sweeteners: According to the FDA, consumption of artificial sweeteners is safe for the general public. No studies show it's harmful during pregnancy, however, limiting the use of artificial sweeteners may be not be a bad idea. Instead substitute fruit juice mixed with sparkling water for a light refreshing drink.

Herbal supplements and tea: Large amounts of some herbs, including peppermint and red raspberry leaf, may cause problems in pregnancy such as contractions, or increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor.

Alcohol: One drink isn't likely to hurt your baby, but no level of alcohol has been proved safe during pregnancy. Since there is no known safe level of alcohol consumption, it's best to avoid it completely.

Caffeine: Moderate amounts of caffeine have not shown any adverse effects in pregnancy. However, large amounts can affect the health of your baby. Therefore it's recommended not to have more than 200 milligrams of caffeine a day (two cups of coffee). Remember other things beside coffee contain caffeine, such as chocolate. In some cases it may be advised to avoid completely, as with women with a history of preterm labor.

Foods that cause food allergy: Depending on your family history, your baby may be at risk for developing food allergies. If you have food allergies, avoiding certain foods that are highly allergenic, such as peanuts and any product made from peanuts may reduce the risk of your baby developing an allergy. Always consult with your provider before changing your diet.