Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

"The chance of such food being contaminated with Listeria is when it has just been cooked and prior to packing. However if they are properly reheated, this should not be a problem. It is best to be cautious when eating deli meats, hot dogs and luncheon meats unless you can be sure that they are properly reheated. Symptoms of having listeriosis include flu-like symptoms, nausea and vomiting, muscle aches. More severe symptoms can occur if it spreads to the nervous system. However, not all foetuses whose mothers have been infected will have problems related to listeriosis."

"Listeria is a bacteria that is found in nature and lives in some foods. Sources of Listeria include most animals, soil, vegetation and sewerage. Because of this, Listeria can easily enter our food chain. An infection with Listeria can cause mild ‘flu-like’ symptoms, urinary tract infections or even quite serious illness.The bacteria that causes Listeria is called Listeria monocytogenes. In pregnancy this bacteria can pass across the placenta and reach the baby. Listeria during pregnancy can cause abortion, premature rupture of membranes, premature birth and very sick babies. The bacteria that causes Listeria is sensitive to heat. So by cooking food well, you are able to destroy it. When cooking meats ensure that the meat is cooked right through. Rare meat is not recommended. If you use the microwave to reheat, ensure that the food is steaming hot right through to the centre. While heat destroys Listeria, refrigeration does not. Listeria is one of the few bacteria that are able to grow on food in the refrigerator. So if food has been stored for longer than twelve hours after cooking - it is recommended that you do not eat it. Also avoid chilled ready to eat foods."

"The problem with luncheon or deli meat is that it could potentially carry listeria, a bacterium that can build up in processed meats (including deli meats and hot dogs) sometime between the cooking and packaging processes. Listeriosis causes serious illness called as Listeriosis- a kind of food poisoning. Symptoms may show up 2-30 days after exposure like mild flu, headaches, muscle aches, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Infection can occur at any time during pregnancy, but it is most common during the third trimester when your immune system is somewhat suppressed. Since the luncheon meat you ate was fried and heated to proper temperature before serving the chances of infection are low. Be sure to contact your health care provider if you experience any of the symptoms. A blood test can confirm an infection from listeriosis."