The holidays are fast approaching and the food selection is every pregnant woman's dream, right? From turkey to the most savory side dishes, there's a little bit of everything to tickle your palette. However, there are certain holiday foods pregnant women should avoid. We have you covered on what you should skip at the dinner table before the festivities begin.
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Sweets with artifical sugar: When it comes to indulging in sweet treats, you're better off going for the real deal. It turns out that real sugar is way better for you and the baby than artifical sweetners. Even though the FDA confirmed that sucralose, a major ingredient in artificial sweeteners, is safe for pregnant women to consume, they still have chemicals that may not be the safest for the long-term health of your baby. Even if you go for natural sugar, still be careful about how much sweets you eat during your pregnancy. Try to keep it to one or two sweets a day.
Cold meats: It may be tempting to pick at the plate of left over turkey once the party has cleared, but avoid eating cold meats during the holidays. Food born illnesses are more likely survive in cold meats versus warm so make sure to take that extra time to pop the leftovers in the oven or microwave.
Alcohol: That bottle of coquito or splash of wine sounds delicious, but don't do it to yourself. Consuming alcohol during pregnancy increases the changes of having a miscarriage or a still birth. Chances are you will be fine if you just have a sip, but it should be avoided just to be safe. Make sure to ask the host before you sip so you avoid drinking a spiked refreshment without knowing.
Too much coffee and tea: Caffeine is fine for pregnant women to consume in very small portions. Dietitian and nutritionist Mary D. Brown suggests keeping it at 200mg a serving and suggests decaf over regular coffee. Teas that contain caffeine should also be avoided. "I recommend that people really stay away from hot tea, unless they're sure it's from safe sources," she states. Although, there are certain brands that make teas safe for women to consume during pregnancy. To be safe, as your doctor what works for you.
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