Many hot drinks and certain types of juices can hinder fetal growth during pregnancy and increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and developmental disorders. On the other hand, choosing the right amount of minerals can support fetal growth and maintain the mother’s health.
For mothers with health issues, it is especially important to focus on a balanced diet and avoid unhealthy foods and drinks, rather than consuming them to satisfy cravings.
According to Health magazine, here are the main beverages that may negatively affect fetal development:
Raw (Unpasteurized) Milk
It is crucial to choose pasteurized milk during pregnancy. Pasteurization eliminates harmful bacteria commonly found in raw milk, including Campylobacter, E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria. To ensure your safety and your baby’s, always opt for pasteurized milk, as raw milk can lead to foodborne illnesses.
Fresh Juices
Unpasteurized fresh juices from juice bars, restaurants, or stores are not recommended during pregnancy, as they may contain harmful bacteria like E. coli, which can cause food poisoning. If you wish to drink fresh juice, it’s safer to prepare it at home and thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before juicing.
Excessive Caffeine Intake
Caffeine crosses the placenta and reaches the fetus. Excessive caffeine consumption may increase the risk of complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight. Pregnancy can also make you more sensitive to caffeine’s effects, including insomnia, dehydration, digestive issues, and nausea. Experts recommend limiting caffeine to 200 mg per day (about 12 oz or 355 ml of coffee). Remember that caffeine is also present in tea, sodas, energy drinks, and chocolate, so monitor your total daily intake.
Carbonated Drinks
Sodas contain artificial sweeteners, such as saccharin, which can pass through the placenta and potentially affect fetal growth or cause congenital malformations. Other side effects of excessive soda consumption include calcium deficiency, high blood pressure, increased risk of miscarriage, weight gain, and exposure to other artificial sweeteners like aspartame.
Herbal Beverages
Although herbal remedies are often believed to be healthy, many ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy as they may harm fetal development or even trigger miscarriage. Research on traditional herbal medicine during pregnancy is limited, so it is safest to avoid it entirely.
Energy Drinks
Pregnant women should avoid energy drinks, which typically contain high levels of caffeine and other harmful ingredients. Overconsumption may cause dehydration, stress, elevated blood pressure, and increased heart rate.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea may induce uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth. While safe for non-pregnant individuals due to its antioxidants, pregnant women should consult a doctor before consuming it regularly.
Wheatgrass Tea
Although nutrient-rich, wheatgrass tea should be avoided during pregnancy because it may carry bacterial or fungal contamination, potentially disrupting fetal development.
In conclusion, these beverages can impair fetal growth and increase the risk of miscarriage or fetal death, especially during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy. If you are unsure about the safety of a juice or herbal tea, it is best to consult your doctor.
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