Nutrition Science and Everyday Application - beta v 0.1

NUTRITION IN PREGNANCY AND LACTATION 581
Figure 11.5. Craniofacial features associated with fetal alcohol syndrome.
Caffeine use should be limited to less than 200 milligrams per day, or the equivalent of
about two cups of coffee. Consumption of greater amounts is linked to miscarriage and
preterm birth. Keep in mind that caffeine is also found in other sources such as chocolate,
energy drinks, soda, tea, and some over-the-counter pain and headache medications. 1
It’s also important to pay special attention to avoiding foodborne illness during pregnancy,
as it can cause major health problems for both the mother and the developing fetus.
For example, the foodborne illness caused by the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, called
listeriosis, can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, and fetal or newborn meningitis. According
to the CDC, pregnant women are ten times more likely to become ill with this disease
than nonpregnant adults, likely because they have a dampened immune response. 19 Other
common foodborne illnesses, such as those caused by Salmonella and E. coli, can also be
very serious in pregnant women.
Foods more likely to be contaminated with foodborne pathogens should be avoided by
pregnant women to decrease their chances of infection. These include the following: 20
• Unpasteurized dairy products such as soft cheeses
• Raw or smoked seafood
• Hot dogs and deli meats (or heat to 165° before eating)
• Paté and other meat spreads
• Undercooked or raw meat, poultry, and eggs
• Raw sprouts
• Raw dough
• Unpasteurized juice and cider