I'm pregnant! What the hell do I eat?

First of all, congratulations. You are one of the lucky women in the world who gets to experience the miracle of carrying a child! “but what do I eat!?” ALL MUMS come ask this question. And EVERYONE will tell you something different. I’m here to tell you all the “rules” and why or why not they are true. Eating when you’re pregnant doesn’t have to be a tedious dramatic affair. Some people are really cagey when it comes to certain foods because of culture, tradition, generational wisdom and other reasons. BUT you want the facts, and I have taken the time to research the wives tales, the science and even your old school aunties unsolicited advice. So here it is:

1. Seafood is NOT evil,

BUT it needs to be fresh and cooked properly. That means NO RAW FISH. It has the potential to carry listeria to your baby. And this can turn very bad for both of you. Tuna is a no go, because it has high amounts of mercury, but fresh smoked salmon is perfectly fine. To be extra safe you should cook it yourself, or even better get hubby to catch it.

2. SUSHI

The reason sushi is known to be unsafe is because generally, its left in a cabinet all day, at a strange temperature – not hot and often not cold either. And you don’t know how fresh it really is most of the time. If you make it yourself, or know a place that’ll make to order, you’ll be fine. I used to go for freshly made donburi in my pregnancy – Chicken katsu was my FAVE.

3. CURRY!?

Curry is fine! Especially if you have been bought up on it.

4. Meat!?

I’m not going to have the vegan argument right now, this question is for people who eat meat regardless. With all animal products you need to be aware of the potential for listeria. So fresh is best, obviously you don’t want to eat old meat. It also needs to be cooked properly. “WELL DONE PLEASE!”

5. Eggs…

Again, the potential for listeria. Cook them properly, no runny yokes… and if you have your own chickens EVEN BETTER.

6. Yogurt? – Pasteurised is best. Because listeria.

7. Cheese? – Only hard cheeses like cheddar, and gouda and edam…No soft cheese like brie, as these are not pasteurised (so… you know it, listeria)

8. Veggies – Yes, of course, as much as you want!

9. Fruit – Absolutely, but be careful of things like pineapple. Too much can cause contractions.

10. Pregnancy vitamins – I’m going to say yes! They really helped me in my pregnancy with things like fatigue and cravings. I didn’t get morning sickness and I will attribute it to having all my nutritional needs met.

Did I miss anything? Write a comment if there is something you would like me to write about!