Which Foods May Increase the Risk of Miscarriage?
- Monica Pineider
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Miscarriage is a sensitive topic. Many women worry about what can cause it. One concern is food. Some foods may increase the risk of miscarriage. It’s important to know which foods can cause miscarriage and which foods to avoid. This article will highlight foods that may pose a risk.
Table of Contents
Which Food Can Cause Miscarriage?
Some foods can increase the risk of miscarriage. Raw or undercooked meat may contain harmful bacteria. Unpasteurized dairy products can carry listeria. That poses a danger during pregnancy. High-mercury fish, such as swordfish and king mackerel, should be avoided.
Excess caffeine might raise the risk of pregnancy loss. Raw eggs can contain salmonella, leading to food poisoning. Processed meats, like deli meats, may harbor harmful bacteria. Unwashed fruits and vegetables can carry pesticides or bacteria. Always choose fresh, properly cooked, and safe foods to protect your pregnancy.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these. And understand why you had better avoid them during pregnancy. Knowing which food can cause miscarriage helps in making safer choices.
Unpasteurized Dairy Products
Unpasteurized dairy products, such as raw milk, cheese, and yoghurt, can be harmful. They may contain Listeria, a dangerous bacterium that can cause listeriosis, which can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.
Pregnant women should only consume pasteurized dairy products. Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria and makes the product safer.
Raw or Undercooked Meat
You should avoid raw or undercooked meat. Meats like beef, pork, and chicken can carry harmful bacteria, including Toxoplasma and Salmonella. These bacteria can cause infections that lead to miscarriage. Knowing which food can cause miscarriage can help expectant mothers avoid risks.
Undercooked meat may also contain listeria. Always cook meat well to kill harmful bacteria. A meat thermometer can help ensure the right temperature.
Seafood High in Mercury
Some seafood contains high mercury levels. Fish like swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish are among them. Mercury can harm the developing fetus’s nervous system. It is a type of food that may increase the risk and cause miscarriage.
To reduce this risk, pregnant women should avoid these fish. Instead, safer options like salmon, shrimp, and tilapia are recommended. These fish are low in mercury and rich in essential nutrients.
Caffeine
Caffeine is present in coffee, tea, and chocolate. Consuming too much during pregnancy can be risky. High intake may reduce blood flow to the placenta. So, it could affect fetal development. It can also increase the risk of pregnancy loss.
Excess caffeine is one of the food-related factors that can cause a miscarriage. Experts recommend limiting caffeine. You should have a maximum of 200 milligrams daily, which is about one cup of coffee. Be mindful of caffeine in sodas and energy drinks as well.
Foods High in Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential, but too much can be harmful. Excessive amounts of vitamin A can increase the risk of miscarriage. It can also cause birth defects.
Liver is very high in vitamin A, so you should avoid it. Pregnant women should not eat liver-based foods. It’s safer to get vitamin A from plant sources like carrots and sweet potatoes.
Certain Herbal Teas
Some herbal teas can be risky. Herbs like raspberry leaf and sage can cause uterine contractions. Others, like black cohosh, can harm the pregnancy. Certain herbs can affect hormone levels, too. Detox teas may also contain ingredients that are not safe during pregnancy.
It’s safest to avoid herbal teas unless advised by a doctor. Always check with a healthcare provider before consuming any herbs.
Raw Eggs
Raw or undercooked eggs should be avoided. They can contain Salmonella bacteria, and eating raw eggs increases the risk of food poisoning. Foodborne illnesses can lead to fever, vomiting, and dehydration, which may increase the risk of miscarriage.
Avoid foods made with raw eggs, like homemade mayonnaise or cookie dough. Always cook eggs thoroughly.
Alcohol
Alcohol is harmful during pregnancy. No amount of alcohol is safe. It can increase the risk of miscarriage and birth defects. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can also cause fetal alcohol syndrome. Knowing which foods can cause miscarriage, such as alcohol, is crucial. It is best to avoid alcohol entirely during pregnancy.
Here are some tips to stay sober and avoid alcohol.
Processed Foods
Processed foods can be harmful. They are high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and preservatives. These can lead to inflammation and increase the risk of miscarriage.
Processed foods also contribute to excessive weight gain. This can raise the risk of gestational diabetes. It is better to eat whole, unprocessed foods. Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
High-Sodium Foods
Foods high in sodium can be harmful. These include processed snacks, canned soups, and salty meats. Too much sodium can cause high blood pressure. This can lead to pregnancy complications like preeclampsia. It’s better to eat fresh, unprocessed foods. Vegetables and fruits can help balance sodium levels in the body.
Artificial Sweeteners
Some artificial sweeteners may be harmful during pregnancy. Aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin are examples. Excessive use of artificial sweeteners can affect pregnancy. Aspartame breaks down into a substance called phenylalanine. This can be harmful in large amounts. Pregnant women should limit or avoid artificial sweeteners. Natural sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup, are safer in moderation.
Conclusion
Certain foods can increase the risk of miscarriage. Unpasteurised dairy, raw meats, and high-mercury fish should be avoided. Caffeine and alcohol should be limited or avoided.
Processed foods and excessive vitamin A can also be harmful. Pregnant women should eat a balanced, nutritious diet.
Always check with a doctor before making dietary changes during pregnancy. Understanding which food can cause a miscarriage helps safeguard the health of the mother and child.