Early pregnancy, particularly the first three months, is a critical period for both mother and baby. To ensure healthy fetal development, there are several activities that young pregnant women should avoid. Here are guidelines from UNICEF and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on what to avoid during pregnancy.
1. Consuming Certain Foods
Good nutrition is essential during pregnancy, but there are some foods to avoid to prevent dangerous infections:
- Raw milk and soft cheeses from raw milk: Unpasteurized dairy products can contain harmful bacteria for pregnant women and their babies.
- Expired foods: Always check expiration dates before consuming food, as bacteria from spoiled food can be harmful.
- Raw or undercooked meat: Meat that is not fully cooked can contain parasites and harmful bacteria.
- Raw or smoked seafood: High risk of bacterial and mercury contamination.
- Raw eggs: Avoid undercooked eggs to prevent harmful bacteria.
- Uncooked grains and legumes: Uncooked seeds can contain bacteria.
- Always wash your hands before eating, wash vegetables and fruits, and store food at the right temperature to avoid harmful bacteria and germs.
2. Consuming Alcohol
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause growth and brain development problems in the baby. Children exposed to alcohol in the womb are at risk for learning and behavioral issues. Therefore, it is best to avoid alcohol entirely during pregnancy.
3. Smoking
Smoking can limit oxygen supply to the baby, increase the risk of low birth weight, and cause various health problems. Children exposed to cigarette smoke are more susceptible to asthma and serious illnesses. Consult your healthcare provider for help quitting smoking.
4. Excessive Caffeine Intake
Large amounts of caffeine can hinder fetal development. Pregnant women are advised not to consume more than 200 mg of caffeine per day. Carefully read nutrition labels as caffeine is found in many coffee and tea products.
5. Lifting Heavy Weights
Lifting heavy weights can put unnecessary strain on the body and increase the risk of injury. Avoid activities that require lifting heavy objects like water jugs, gas cylinders, and other heavy items.
6. Exposure to Cigarette Smoke
Secondhand smoke exposure can also negatively impact the health of both mother and baby. Avoid environments with cigarette smoke. Move away from areas with heavy smoke immediately.
7. Excessive Exercise
While light exercise is recommended, avoid strenuous activities that cause extreme fatigue such as long-duration workouts or intense muscle strain. Ensure you can move comfortably without becoming overly exhausted.
8. Activities with Risk of Falls or Injury
Avoid sports and activities with a high risk of falling or abdominal injury, such as soccer, cycling, or basketball. Also, avoid outdoor exercise in extreme heat, and stay away from saunas, hot tubs, and steam rooms.
Conclusion
Avoiding the activities listed above can help ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy for you and your baby. If you are uncertain about the safety of certain foods or activities during pregnancy, always consult your obstetrician.
To maintain nutrition for pregnant women and families, consider high-protein animal foods that are easy to prepare and delicious, such as tilapia fillets from Regal Springs Indonesia. Stay healthy!
