Upon first finding out I’m pregnant, I started Googling “what not to eat when pregnant” almost immediately. However, I rarely found definitive lists. What’s more, they were so filled with explanations that getting to all the entries was slow and difficult. That’s why I decided to create this ultimate guide for you all. It contains only a very detailed list of what not to eat or drink during pregnancy. For those who want to know more, I’ll attach relevant resources at the end.

For advice on a good second-trimester diet, read this.

What Not to Eat When Pregnant

Here are things to avoid when pregnant to avoid miscarriage and other harmful consequences:

Certain Fish

Raw (sushi)
Undercooked
Certain kinds:

• Bigeye tuna
• King mackerel
• Marlin
• Orange roughy
• Swordfish
• Shark
• Tilefish

Animal Products

Undercooked meat & eggs
Processed meat
Organ meat

What Cheese to Avoid While PregnantSoft blue cheeses

Soft blue cheeses

• gorgonzola
• roquefort
• danish blue

Mould-ripened soft cheeses

• camembert
• brie
• chèvre

Soft goats’ cheese

+ Raw sprouts

Drinks to Avoid

Alcohol
Coffee (especially during the first trimester)
Unpasteurized milk & juice
Energy drinks

Which Teas to Avoid During Pregnancy

Caffeinated teas (while they also fall under things to avoid in early pregnancy, they are allowed in moderation later on):

• black tea
• white tea
• green tea
• chai
• matcha
• oolong tea

Potentially dangerous teas:

• sage
• vervain
• borage
• fennel
• fenugreek
• thyme
• motherwort
• lovage
• pennyroyal
• licorice
• frankincense
• chamomile
• blue & black cohosh

What Not to Eat When Pregnant: Bottom Line

This list features foods and drinks you should avoid completely when pregnant. However, there are other foods that, when consumed in large quantities, could also be dangerous for your baby. So while you should completely avoid these (except caffeine starting from month 4 – but do keep to less than 200mg a day, though), be sure to also eat everything else in moderation.

Sources:

Healthline

Healthline

Healthline

NHS

Kids Health

Jelena

A 27-year-old married mom-to-be, trying to have it all. I have a full-time job I enjoy, a home I’m in love with, and plenty of hobbies I try my best to have the time for. A psychologist by vocation, with the goal of helping young women live their best lives.