Fruits and vegetables that pregnant women should not eat
The diet of pregnant women is very important because it directly affects the healthy development of the fetus. While many fruits and vegetables are packed with nutrients, some should be avoided or limited. Here are some fruits and vegetables that pregnant women should not eat to protect the health of their fetus.
Raw and semi-raw vegetables
Raw and semi-raw vegetables are easily infected by bacteria and parasites, and the bacteria in them can affect the health of the fetus. Therefore, pregnant women should limit the consumption of raw and semi-raw vegetables, such as lettuce, spinach, celery, bean sprouts, tomatoes, etc. If you plan to eat these vegetables, it is best to blanch them in hot water first. This treatment can eliminate bacteria and parasites and make them safer.
Fish with high mercury content
Most fish, especially deep-sea fish, are good for pregnant women\’s health because they are rich in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. However, some fish, like shark and tuna, contain high amounts of mercury. Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can cause damage to the fetal nervous system and developmental abnormalities. Therefore, pregnant women need to limit their consumption of these fish. Of course, how do you decide which fish are safe? Public health departments recommend that pregnant women eat at least two meals of fish a week, but they should choose fish with low mercury content, such as salmon, cod, sea bass, etc.
Unwashed fruits and vegetables
Inadequately washed fruits and vegetables may contain pesticide residues that may affect the fetus. Therefore, pregnant women need to carefully wash and eat fruits and vegetables, especially those fruits that cannot be peeled and eaten, such as strawberries, grapes and peaches.
Persimmon
Persimmons are a delicious fruit, but pregnant women should avoid eating them. Persimmons contain a substance called persimmon acid, which reacts with gastric acid to form a substance that blocks the gastrointestinal tract. If pregnant women eat large amounts of persimmons, this substance can prevent the absorption of nutrients and cause symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.
In short, pregnant women need to pay attention to their diet to protect the health of their fetus. Avoiding or limiting the consumption of raw and semi-raw vegetables, high-mercury fish, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and persimmons can help reduce potential health risks. During pregnancy, it is best for pregnant women to consult a nutritionist or doctor to determine which foods are healthy and safe.
