Cabbage (boiled) (raw) (steamed)
SAFE TO EAT
Cabecou (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Caboc (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Cabrales (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Cachaille (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Caciocavallo (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Caciotta (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Caesar dressing
NOT RECOMMENDED
Caesar dressing is traditionally made with raw eggs, which may contain salmonella, and so should be avoided during pregnancy. However, many Caesar dressing brands do not use raw eggs – especially those which you might find at a regular grocery store – so you can check the ingredients to find out whether a particular brand uses raw eggs. You should always ask the waiter or waitress too if their Caesar contains raw eggs when ordering something with the dressing at a restaurant.
Caesar salad
NOT RECOMMENDED
Caesar dressing is traditionally made with raw eggs, which may contain salmonella, and so should be avoided during pregnancy. However, many Caesar dressing brands do not use raw eggs – especially those which you might find at a regular grocery store – so you can check the ingredients to find out whether a particular brand uses raw eggs. You should always ask the waiter or waitress too if their Caesar contains raw eggs when ordering something with the dressing at a restaurant.
Caffeine
NOT RECOMMENDED IN LARGE QUANTITIES
A moderate amount of caffeine (think one cup of coffee or a soda a day) is safe to drink during pregnancy. However, the safety of consuming larger quantities, which ACOG describes as over 200mg in a day, is unknown, and some studies have linked caffeine to miscarriage and low birth weight, so it’s very important to keep your caffeine intake under control. Furthermore, drinking caffeine may help contribute to frequent urination, and difficulty sleeping, so women who are having difficulty falling or staying asleep may want to avoid caffeine, particularly later in the day. You should talk to your health care provider, as his or her opinion on caffeine during pregnancy may differ.
Cajun rice
SAFE TO EAT
Cake
SAFE TO EAT
Calamari (fried)
SAFE TO EAT
Protein
Protein helps you build cells as your body grows to accommodate and support baby, and baby uses it to help build healthy muscles and a brilliant brain.
Calamari (Raw)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Many types of sushi contain raw meat or fish, which may contain parasites which could get your baby sick. While the risk of contracting a parasitic infection from sushi is relatively low, and the infection could probably not cross the placenta and make your baby sick, the gastrointestinal problems it could cause in you are serious enough that it could hinder your baby’s development. Because of this, The Mayo Clinic recommends that pregnant women avoid sushi during pregnancy, but many doctors are mixed on the issue, so you may want to ask your practitioner for his or her opinion. Additionally, many types of sushi do not contain raw meat or fish, and are safe to consume as long as they follow your other dietary guidelines.
California roll (sushi)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Many types of sushi contain raw meat or fish, which may contain parasites which could get your baby sick. While the risk of contracting a parasitic infection from sushi is relatively low, and the infection could probably not cross the placenta and make your baby sick, the gastrointestinal problems it could cause in you are serious enough that it could hinder your baby’s development. Because of this, The Mayo Clinic recommends that pregnant women avoid sushi during pregnancy, but many doctors are mixed on the issue, so you may want to ask your practitioner for his or her opinion. Additionally, many types of sushi do not contain raw meat or fish, and are safe to consume as long as they follow your other dietary guidelines.
Cambozola (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Camembert (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Camembert de Normandie (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Canadian bacon
SAFE TO EAT
Protein helps you build cells as your body grows to accommodate and support baby, and baby uses it to help build healthy muscles and a brilliant brain.
Candied fruit
SAFE TO EAT
Candied walnuts
SAFE TO EAT
Candy
SAFE TO EAT
Cannellini bean
SAFE TO EAT
Protein
Protein helps you build cells as your body grows to accommodate and support baby, and baby uses it to help build healthy muscles and a brilliant brain.
Iron
You need iron to help you and baby build healthy red blood cells as your blood volume expands, and it could also help prevent preterm birth.
Fiber
You need fiber to help your digestive system stay as regular as possible, and prevent certain annoying pregnancy symptoms.
Canola oil
SAFE TO EAT
Cantaloupes
SAFE TO EAT
Is this safe to eat? Yes
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps boost your immune system to protect you and baby from disease, assists in the absorption of iron to make new blood cells, and contributes to the formation of collagen, which helps build baby’s bones and skin.
Vitamin A
You need Vitamin A to help repair tissues after you give birth, and baby needs it to aid in heart, lungs, eye, and all other sorts of functional development.
Capers
SAFE TO EAT
Capicola
NOT RECOMMENDED
Because of the way they are prepared and packaged, in rare cases, lunch meats may contain the listeria bacteria, which can cross the placenta and cause serious problems like miscarriage, pre-term birth, and other serious health risks for your baby, so the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends heating any deli meat you want to eat until it is steaming hot in order to make it safe to eat. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about lunch meats during pregnancy.
Caprice des dieux (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Capricorn goat (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Caprifeuille (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Caramel topping
SAFE TO EAT
Caramel
SAFE TO EAT
Caramel candy
SAFE TO EAT
Caramel popcorn
SAFE TO EAT
Caramel topping
SAFE TO EAT
Caravane (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Caribou (baked) (cooked) (grilled)
SAFE TO EAT
Protein
Protein helps you build cells as your body grows to accomodate and support baby, and baby uses it to help build healthy muscles and a brilliant brain.
Iron
You need iron to help you and baby build healthy red blood cells as your blood volume expands, and it could also help prevent preterm birth.
Caribou (raw)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Eating raw meat puts you at risk of exposure to harmful bacteria like coliform bacteria, salmonella, and e. coli, and can cause toxoplasmosis, a serious parasitic infection. Although most of these infections can probably not cross the placenta, they could make you sick enough to negatively affect your baby’s growth and development. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women cook all meat thoroughly during pregnancy before eating it – about 170 degrees Fahrenheit at the center for steak. You can always talk to your health care provider if you have more questions.
Carp (baked) (cooked) (fried) (grilled) (raw) (smoked)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Mercury is a dangerous chemical found in seafood that can be dangerous for your baby’s development. Mercury is mainly found in larger fish, as they accumulate more mercury in their systems than the smaller fish they prey on. If you’re exposed to mercury during pregnancy, your baby may be at risk of stunted brain development, and central nervous system issues. Although this contains a medium amount of mercury, pregnant women can still eat it (so long as it is cooked!), and reap the nutritional benefits. However, because it does contain a significant amount of mercury, it might be best to eat this fish in moderation. You can talk to your doctor if you have any questions.
Carpaccio (sushi)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Many types of sushi contain raw meat or fish, which may contain parasites which could get your baby sick. While the risk of contracting a parasitic infection from sushi is relatively low, and the infection could probably not cross the placenta and make your baby sick, the gastrointestinal problems it could cause in you are serious enough that it could hinder your baby’s development. Because of this, The Mayo Clinic recommends that pregnant women avoid sushi during pregnancy, but many doctors are mixed on the issue, so you may want to ask your practitioner for his or her opinion. Additionally, many types of sushi do not contain raw meat or fish, and are safe to consume as long as they follow your other dietary guidelines
Carre de l’est (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Carrot bread
SAFE TO EAT
Iron
You need iron to help you and baby build healthy red blood cells as your blood volume expands, and it could also help prevent preterm birth.
Vitamin A
You need Vitamin A to help repair tissues after you give birth, and baby needs it to aid in heart, lungs, eye, and all other sorts of functional development.
Carbs
You need carbohydrates to help energize your body throughout the day.
Carrot cake
SAFE TO EAT
Carrot juice
SAFE TO DRINK
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps boost your immune system to protect you and baby from disease, assists in the absorption of iron to make new blood cells, and contributes to the formation of collagen, which helps build baby’s bones and skin.
Vitamin A
You need Vitamin A to help repair tissues after you give birth, and baby needs it to aid in heart, lungs, eye, and all other sorts of functional development.
Carrots
SAFE TO DRINK
Folic Acid
You need folic acid to help build blood cells, repair DNA, and reduce your risk of preeclampsia, and baby needs it to build a healthy brain and prevent other developmental impairment, and heart defects.
Vitamin A
You need Vitamin A to help repair tissues after you give birth, and baby needs it to aid in heart, lungs, eye, and all other sorts of functional development.
Cashel blue (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Cashew butter
SAFE TO DRINK
Cashews
SAFE TO DRINK
Castello branco (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Caterpillar roll (sushi)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Many types of sushi contain raw meat or fish, which may contain parasites which could get your baby sick. While the risk of contracting a parasitic infection from sushi is relatively low, and the infection could probably not cross the placenta and make your baby sick, the gastrointestinal problems it could cause in you are serious enough that it could hinder your baby’s development. Because of this, The Mayo Clinic recommends that pregnant women avoid sushi during pregnancy, but many doctors are mixed on the issue, so you may want to ask your practitioner for his or her opinion. Additionally, many types of sushi do not contain raw meat or fish, and are safe to consume as long as they follow your other dietary guidelines
Catfish (baked) (fried) (grilled)
SAFE TO DRINK
Protein
Protein helps you build cells as your body grows to accomodate and support baby, and baby uses it to help build healthy muscles and a brilliant brain.
Catfish (raw) (smoked)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Many types of sushi contain raw meat or fish, which may contain parasites which could get your baby sick. While the risk of contracting a parasitic infection from sushi is relatively low, and the infection could probably not cross the placenta and make your baby sick, the gastrointestinal problems it could cause in you are serious enough that it could hinder your baby’s development. Because of this, The Mayo Clinic recommends that pregnant women avoid sushi during pregnancy, but many doctors are mixed on the issue, so you may want to ask your practitioner for his or her opinion. Additionally, many types of sushi do not contain raw meat or fish, and are safe to consume as long as they follow your other dietary guidelines.
Cathelain (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Soft cheeses are often made with raw, unpasteurized milk, which may contain the listeria bacteria that causes listeriosis. However, soft cheeses that are clearly marked as “pasteurized” are safe to eat, as this process kills the bacteria. Listeria can cross the placenta and cause an infection in your baby, potentially resulting in pre-term birth, miscarriage, and other serious risks. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women avoid soft cheeses. You should ask your doctor if you have any questions about soft cheeses, or want his or her opinion on eating soft cheeses, as it may differ.
Catnip tea
NOT RECOMMENDED
Some herbal teas contain ingredients that may put you or baby at risk, and doctors and researchers generally recommend avoiding this particular tea. Different herbal teas have been proven to induce contractions, and pose other possible risks, so it’s probably best to avoid this while you are pregnant. If you really can’t give it up, you should talk to your doctor about his or her opinion on the pregnancy-health of drinking this tea, as their opinion may be different.
Catsup
SAFE TO EAT
Cauliflower
SAFE TO EAT
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a great way to boost your immune system. It helps support the absorption of iron to create new blood cells and aids in producing collagen, which can strengthen your baby’s bones and skin.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a necessary B-vitamin for both you and baby. Folic acid helps you build red blood cells, repair DNA, and reduce your risk of preeclampsia. For baby, folic acid helps in building a healthy brain and aids in preventing heart defects and other developmental impairments.
Fiber
To keep your digestive system as regular as possible and to avoid some uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms, you need fiber.
Caviar (unpasteurized)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Sushi sometimes contains raw fish or meat, which may contain parasites that could make your baby ill. Although there is a chance of getting a parasite infection from sushi, it is unlikely that the infection will spread to your baby and make them sick. However, the gastrointestinal issues it may give you are severe enough to interfere with your baby’s development. The Mayo Clinic advises pregnant women to avoid sushi because of this. You might want to consult your doctor for their opinion.
A lot of sushi varieties do not contain raw fish or meat, so they’re okay to eat as long as you follow the rest of your dietary restrictions.
Cayenne pepper
SAFE TO EAT
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is extremely helpful to both you and your baby in many ways. For you, Vitamin A helps repair tissue after labour and delivery. For baby, Vitamin A helps the development of their eyes, heart, lungs, and more!
Celery
SAFE TO EAT
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is extremely helpful to both you and your baby in many ways. For you, Vitamin A helps repair tissue after labour and delivery. For baby, Vitamin A helps the development of their eyes, heart, lungs, and more!
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a necessary B-vitamin for both you and baby. Folic acid helps you build red blood cells, repair DNA, and reduce your risk of preeclampsia. For baby, folic acid helps in building a healthy brain and aids in preventing heart defects and other developmental impairments.
Cendre d’Olivet (cheese)
NOT RECOMMENDED
that is frequently used to make soft cheeses. Listeria can infect your unborn child through the placenta and lead to preterm birth, miscarriage, and other harmful outcomes. As a result, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises against consuming soft cheeses while pregnant. Ask your doctor if you have any concerns regarding soft cheeses or would like to know their position on the matter.
Eating soft cheeses clearly marked as “pasteurized” is okay, as this method eliminates the bacteria.
Cheese fondue
SAFE TO EAT
Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral for both you and your baby. For you, calcium helps prevent osteoporosis from developing later in life as your baby takes calcium from your bones to grow while you are pregnant. For baby, calcium is needed to help build strong bones and muscles.
Cheese ravioli
SAFE TO EAT
Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral for both you and your baby. For you, calcium helps prevent osteoporosis from developing later in life as your baby takes calcium from your bones to grow while you are pregnant. For baby, calcium is needed to help build strong bones and muscles.
Cheeseburger
SAFE TO EAT
Protein
Protein helps both you and your baby be strong and healthy. For you, protein aids in cell formation as your body grows to support your growing baby. For baby, protein helps in the development of strong muscles and a sharp mind.
Iron
As your blood volume increases, you need iron to help you and your unborn child develop healthy red blood cells. Iron may also be helpful in preventing preterm birth.
Cherries
SAFE TO EAT
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a great way to boost your immune system. It helps support the absorption of iron to create new blood cells and aids in producing collagen, which can strengthen your baby’s bones and skin.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is extremely helpful to both you and your baby in many ways. For you, Vitamin A helps repair tissue after labour and delivery. For baby, Vitamin A helps the development of their eyes, heart, lungs, and more!
Fiber
To keep your digestive system as regular as possible and to avoid some uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms, you need fiber.
Cherry yoghurt
SAFE TO EAT
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a great way to boost your immune system. It helps support the absorption of iron to create new blood cells and aids in producing collagen, which can strengthen your baby’s bones and skin.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is extremely helpful to both you and your baby in many ways. For you, Vitamin A helps repair tissue after labour and delivery. For baby, Vitamin A helps the development of their eyes, heart, lungs, and more!
Fiber
To keep your digestive system as regular as possible and to avoid some uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms, you need fiber.
Chestnuts
SAFE TO EAT
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a great way to boost your immune system. It helps support the absorption of iron to create new blood cells and aids in producing collagen, which can strengthen your baby’s bones and skin.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is extremely helpful to both you and your baby in many ways. For you, Vitamin A helps repair tissue after labour and delivery. For baby, Vitamin A helps the development of their eyes, heart, lungs, and more!
Fiber
To keep your digestive system as regular as possible and to avoid some uncomfortable pregnancy symptoms, you need fiber.
Chicken (baked) (braised) (cooked) (dark meat) (fried) (grilled) (poached) (roasted) (seared)
SAFE TO EAT
Protein
Protein helps both you and your baby be strong and healthy. For you, protein aids in cell formation as your body grows to support your growing baby. For baby, protein helps in the development of strong muscles and a sharp mind.
Iron
As your blood volume increases, you need iron to help you and your unborn child develop healthy red blood cells. Iron may also be helpful in preventing preterm birth.
Chicken (raw)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Consuming raw meat puts you in danger of many things that could harm you and your baby. For example, eating raw meat could result in you contracting toxoplasmosis, a deadly parasite infection. As well, raw meat can expose you to harmful bacteria such as coliform bacteria, salmonella, and e. coli. Although the majority of these infections are unlikely to pass through the placenta, they may still make you unwell enough to have a significant impact on the health and development of your baby. Because of this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises that women boil all meat to a temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit or higher before consuming it while pregnant. If you have any additional questions, you may always speak with your healthcare practitioner.
Chicken Caesar salad
NOT RECOMMENDED
Caesar dressing is typically made with raw eggs, which are unsafe to consume while pregnant as they could contain salmonella. You can check the ingredients of store-bought Caesar dressing to determine whether a specific brand uses raw eggs as many brands do not. When ordering food with the dressing at a restaurant, you should always ask if the Caesar dressing contains raw eggs.
Chocolate mousse
NOT RECOMMENDED
Salmonella is a dangerous bacteria sometimes found in raw eggs that may cause both pregnant women and babies to become seriously ill when consumed. Eggs that are fully cooked are okay to incorporate into your diet as they are among the healthiest sources of protein. The March of Dimes advises pregnant women to make sure that all of the eggs they consume are fully cooked in order to significantly reduce the risk of getting sick. If you have any questions, please consult your physician.
Cuttlefish (Baked) (Cooked) (Fried) (Grilled)
SAFE TO EAT
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a great way to boost your immune system. It helps support the absorption of iron to create new blood cells and aids in producing collagen, which can strengthen your baby’s bones and skin.
Protein
Protein helps both you and your baby be strong and healthy. For you, protein aids in cell formation as your body grows to support your growing baby. For baby, protein helps in the development of strong muscles and a sharp mind.
Iron
As your blood volume increases, you need iron to help you and your unborn child develop healthy red blood cells. Iron may also be helpful in preventing preterm birth.
Cuttlefish (Raw) (Smoked)
NOT RECOMMENDED
Sushi sometimes contains raw fish or meat, which may contain parasites that could make your baby ill. Although there is a chance of getting a parasite infection from sushi, it is unlikely that the infection will spread to your baby and make them sick. However, the gastrointestinal issues it may give you are severe enough to interfere with your baby’s development. The Mayo Clinic advises pregnant women to avoid sushi because of this. You might want to consult your doctor for their opinion.
A lot of sushi varieties do not contain raw fish or meat, so they’re okay to eat as long as you follow the rest of your dietary restrictions.