Motherhood starts with pregnancy which tends to be a sensitive stage that is characterized by special care and diet accompanied by strict observance of hygiene. It’s a stage that is filled with huge expectations and anxiety, especially to incoming mothers. Proper diet ensures excellent health for the pregnant woman and her baby. However, there are certain foods that can be detrimental to pregnancy. They can trigger contractions of the uterus and widening of the cervix leading to a natural miscarriage. Therefore, pregnant women should stay away from such foods while maintaining proper hygiene and lifestyle. In this article, I aim at discussing foods that every pregnant woman should avoid to reduce the risk of miscarriage during the early trimester. They are:
Citrus fruits
They are rich in vitamin C which leads to rising in levels estrogen hormone which induces menstruation. Vitamin C also induces uterine contraction this effectively inducing a natural miscarriage. Hence, pregnant women should eat citrus fruits moderately.
Pineapple
Pineapples are rich in bromelain. The chemical softens the cervix which leads to its relaxation thus making it incapable of holding the infant in the uterus. Definitely, this leads to miscarriage. Therefore, pineapple should not be incorporated in diet during the early stage of pregnancy.
Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are said to be of great help in later stages of delivery since they can ease delivery. However, when taken along sesame seeds during the early stages of pregnancy, they can trigger miscarriage. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to avoid the seeds during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate seeds contain substances that can induce uterine contraction leading to early labor. It is best for pregnant women to avoid the fruit during the early stages of pregnancy.
Liver
The liver is a rich source of vitamin A and is a recommendable food when taken in small quantities. Nevertheless, when a pregnant woman consumes liver in large quantities, the gradual accumulation of retinol can be detrimental to the baby and can result in miscarriage.
Aloe Vera
The health benefits of Aloe Vera can’t be underestimated. However, the herb poses risk to pregnant women. It comprises a laxative known as anthraquinones which can induce contraction of uterus walls thus leading to miscarriage. However, application of Aloe Vera gel is considered safe to pregnant women.
Green Papaya
Unripe papayas contain laxatives that initiate labor and eventual miscarriage. Furthermore, papaya seeds contain enzymes that can induce uterine contractions further enhancing miscarriage. This is one of the key reasons for pregnant women to keep away from papaya.
Peach
Pregnant women are strongly advised against eating peaches in large quantities. Peaches can lead to huge levels of body heat which may cause internal bleeding. This results in miscarriage.
Spices
Spices have quite a good nutritional value besides adding flavor to food. However, pregnant women should not consume some spices like garlic and peppermint since they can induce contractions of the uterus thus pushing the premature baby to the cervix. Garlic comprises of a harmful substance that can result in blood thinning. This can cause internal bleeding and miscarriage.
Crabs
Crabs are a rich source of calcium. However, high levels of cholesterol present in crabs can shrink the uterus. This leads to internal bleeding and can easily lead to natural miscarriage. Hence, it’s best to refrain from eating crabs during the early stage of pregnancy.
Conclusion
Maintaining proper health is beneficial to both a pregnant woman and her baby. This is enhanced by observing good hygiene and diet. While it’s recommended for pregnant mothers to consume foods that are rich in nutrients, they should avoid foods like crabs, pineapples, and peaches among others to prevent natural miscarriage.
