Nutrition and Pregnancy (2)
Toxoplasmosis, Listeriosis, Special Situations
Dr. Claude Allouche, Gynecologist
Ahuza Clinic, Raanana, Israel
058 726 02 64
Toxoplasmosis
If you are not immune to toxoplasmosis, it can pose serious risks to the fetus during pregnancy. Follow these guidelines to reduce the risk:
Dietary Tips:
- Avoid raw or undercooked meats
- Cook meat thoroughly – ensure it is fully cooked throughout its thickness.
- Avoid cooking meat in the microwave
- Steer clear of marinated, smoked, or grilled meats
- Opt for fish and chicken instead of red meat
- Wash vegetables and herbs thoroughly, especially if they are earthy and eaten raw.
- Clean kitchen utensils and surfaces properly after contact with raw meat, vegetables, or fruits.
- Wash hands after handling raw foods and before eating.
Dining Out:
- Avoid raw vegetables – choose cooked vegetables instead.
- Eat well-cooked meats, prioritizing chicken and fish.
Other Precautions:
- Avoid contact with cats and their excrement – clean litter boxes using bleach.
- Wear gloves when gardening to avoid potential contamination.
Listeriosis
Listeriosis is a bacterial infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, transmitted through contaminated food. In pregnant women, it can lead to severe complications, such as late-term miscarriage, premature birth, or neonatal infections. Follow these precautions to avoid contamination:
Hygiene at Home:
- Maintain kitchen cleanliness, ensuring the refrigerator is set to 3-4°C and regularly cleaned with bleach.
- Separate raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination.
- Respect expiration dates, as listeria can grow at refrigerator temperatures.
- Reheat leftovers thoroughly and consume within three days.
- Wash vegetables and herbs before use.
Foods to Avoid:
- Raw milk cheeses (especially soft cheeses)
- Cheese rinds
- Grated cheeses
- Cooked deli meats (e.g., pâté, foie gras, jellied products)
- Sliced meats
- Smoked fish, raw fish, shellfish, surimi, taramasalata
- Raw sprouts (e.g., soybeans)
- Raw or minced meat
Recommendations:
- Thoroughly cook all animal-based foods (meat, fish, deli meats).
- Choose prepackaged products to reduce the risk of contamination.
- Remove the rind from cheeses as they can be contaminated through contact with the environment.
- Consume raw and sliced foods quickly after purchase.
- Follow proper hygiene practices – wash hands and utensils after use.
- Keep raw foods separate from cooked or ready-to-eat foods.
- Reheat leftovers and prepared meals before eating.
- Ensure refrigerator temperature is set to 4°C and clean it regularly with bleach.
Special Situations
Vegan Diet:
If you follow a vegan diet, consult your doctor about necessary supplementation. Vegan diets, which exclude all animal products (including eggs and dairy), may cause deficiencies in:
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin D
- Iron
- Iodine
- Calcium
These deficiencies can affect both the mother and the baby.
Dietary Supplements:
- Do not take supplements without consulting your doctor or midwife. Although supplements are available over the counter, excessive intake of certain vitamins and trace elements can be harmful during pregnancy.
Expecting Twins?
- You don't need to eat twice as much – your nutritional needs increase only slightly.
No Alcohol During Pregnancy:
- Avoid alcohol completely – alcohol crosses the placenta and enters the fetal bloodstream, leading to severe consequences for the unborn baby.
- Stay hydrated with water only during pregnancy.
Source: Ameli.fr
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