Holiday Foods to Avoid

The holidays are always a time for good food, laughter and family fun. Although this is the time when most diets and food inhibitions go out the window, there are still several precautions to take to protect you and your baby-to-be during the holidays.

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1. Raw Batter

Don’t be tempted to lick the spoon on uncooked cake batter. Doing so could increase your chances of getting salmonella poisoning from the raw eggs.

2.     Stuffing

Consider cooking stuffing separately rather than inside the turkey. In most cases, the inside of the turkey does not get hot enough to kill all of the harmful bacteria than can transferred from the undercooked meat to the stuffing.

3.     Wines and Eggnog

Alcohol consumption should be prevented during any time of pregnancy, so celebratory wine and alcoholic eggnog are out of the question. Instead, drink many stores sparkling cider and soy eggnog. 

4.     Soft Cheeses

Many times soft cheeses are made with unpasteurized milk that may contain listeria, a bacteria known to cause miscarriages and stillbirths.

5.     Seafood( Raw & Smoke)

Seafood is very risky during pregnancy. Fish such as catfish, salmon, and swordfish have been linked to having high traces of mercury. Mercury during pregnancy can lead to mental and physical birth defects.

6.     Undercooked Meat

Consuming undercooked meat may result in salmonella poisoning. Tip: The inside of your turkey should reach at least 180 degrees.

Key Notes

- Make sure all dairy items are pasteurized.

- Don't eat anything raw.

- No alcohol!

Don’t let this list put a damper on you holiday preparation. Use this time to explore new, fun dishes and beverages to ensure you and your baby have a happy and safe holiday season.