Pregnancy: Cautionary Foods

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[x]   Transcript: Many pregnant women divide their diet into lists of off-limits foods and safe foods. There is actually a third list to be aware of though - cautionary foods. There are some foods that pregnant women just shouldn't eat-like mercury-laden fish and the potentially toxic sweetener saccharin. However, there are many foods that are completely safe for pregnancy. So if you are looking for a little variety in your diet, and don't want to take any risks, you should be aware that there are also quite a few foods on the safe list, if they are eaten in moderation. Although some people have suggested that consuming grilled and blackened meats, for example, poses a slight cancer risk. Most doctors agree that it's fine to enjoy blackened foods in moderation. Similarly, cured meats, like pepperoni, bologna, and hot dogs, have been brought into question. Worry here stems from nitrates-chemical preservatives that may prove toxic in large doses. For this reason, once-a-month moderation is recommended for this type of food. What if you're a vegan or a vegetarian? Can you maintain your diet without any risk to the baby? The jury says yes on this one, with one caveat: Take a multi-vitamin to make up for any nutrients lacking in your diet. And speak to your doctor about dietary restrictions. With her help, you can keep your baby healthy and eat a diet that works for you.

[x]   Bio:

Dr. Marsha Silberstein is a board-certified anesthesiologist, who began practicing medicine in the early 1970s, after receiving a medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Silberstein has a broad range of experience, including patient care, running a successful medical consulting practice, and serving as a vice president with the insurance company CIGNA. Today, in addition to practicing medicine, Dr. Silberstein is pursuing a rabbinical degree and volunteers as a hospital chaplain.