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Why Can’t I Eat Sandwich Meats Just Because I am Pregnant?
By Christina | March 1, 2008
When I became pregnant last year I was surprised when my doctor said to avoid lunch meats and sub sanwiches. I knew I had to stop any and all alcohol consumption and sushi was out, but a roast beef hoagie? What’s next?
As it turns out, there is a bacteria called Listeria that is found is animal feces, soil, mud and surface water. This bacteria multiplies quickly if left out in room temperature environments, slowly in the refrigerator and not at all in the freezer. Often lunch meats at your local deli or supermarket are kept in refrigerated cases and taken out frequently leaving them vulnerable to the bacteria.
Listeria affects the intestines and in turn finds its way into the bloodstream causing flu like symptoms in adults. Although rare, this bacteria can cause big problems if consumed by a pregnant woman. Listeria does cross the placenta and if untreated can lead to miscarriage, premature delivery, even stillbirth!
I did have a few lunch meat sandwiches while I was pregnant because although I had been told to stay away, I did not realize how devastating it could have been to my unborn baby. This is a real, albeit rare, threat to your fetus, so for just these nine months, stay away from any meat, poultry or fish that has not been thoroughly cooked.
Topics: General |
