Avoiding processed foods in pregnancy

By Sarah Lawson

For most pregnant women, awareness about not falling sick with food poisoning is very important. ThinkBaby has a number of articles about Diet and Nutrition that are worth taking a look at. Especially relating to additives and unpasteurised foods, and pre-prepared side salads or meals which can harbour bacteria.
However, it is important even to be aware of processed foods. These may not usually harbour the bacteria of foods which have not been kept suitably hot or cold, or which contain uncooked ingredients, but they do contain many chemicals.

Processed foods to avoid
The most common processed foods which contain high numbers of additives are processed cheeses and cheese spreads, as well as processed meats (fully cooked or not).

Why are processed foods worth avoiding in pregnancy?
Although most women in pregnancy will carry on with their usual diet amended just slightly, pregnancy itself can leave you feeling more drained, make your skin more sensitive, and make you more dehydrated. The salt and other chemicals in processed foods will make these symptoms and discomforts worse, and can cause headaches.
Reduce the number of these processed foods in your diet, and make sure you are drinking plenty of water through your day.

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Home » News > Your pregnancy	Friday 25 July 2008 \| Help \| Glossary