Caffeine
Caffeine crosses the placenta, but it's not considered a teratogen. Fetal blood and tissue levels are similar to maternal concentrations. The use of caffeine during pregnancy is controversial; however, moderate consumption of less than 200 mg/day has not been associated with clinically important adverse fetal effects. Consuming over 200 mg/day is associated with a significant increased risk of miscarriage. High maternal doses of caffeine throughout pregnancy have also resulted in symptoms of caffeine withdrawal in newborn infants. Advise mothers to keep caffeine consumption below 200 mg/day. This is similar to the amount of caffeine in about 2 cups of coffee or tea.
Alcohol
Pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy should be advised to avoid drinking alcohol in the first three months of pregnancy if possible because it may be associated with an increased risk of miscarriage.
If women choose to drink alcohol during pregnancy they should be advised to drink no more than one to two units once or twice a week. Although there is uncertainty regarding a safe level of alcohol consumption in pregnancy, at this low level there is no evidence of harm to the unborn baby. Women should be informed that getting drunk or binge drinking during pregnancy (defined as more than five standard drinks on a single occasion) may be harmful to the unborn baby.
Pesticides
Can cause lasting damage to human health, especially during fetal development and early childhood.
Buy these organically (non-organic versions tend to be highest in pesticides)
Peach
Apple
Bell Pepper
Celery
Nectarine
Strawberries
Cherries
Kale
Lettuce
Grapes (Imported)
Carrot
Pear
Lowest in pesticides
Onion
Avocado
Sweet Corn
Pineapple
Mango
Asparagus
Sweet Peas
Kiwi
Cabbage
Eggplant
Papaya
Watermelon
Broccoli
Tomato
Sweet Potato
Avoid
Cigarette smoking.
Unpasteurized food.
Mercury in fish. FDA recommends women pregnant or considering pregnancy should avoid all shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish. Limit intake to 12oz. other cooked fish/week. See the omega-3 page for more information.
Fluoride (potential neurotoxin and carcinogen).
Aspartame (implicated in autoimmune diseases, depression, mental disorders) and splenda (limited human studies, reduces thymus gland in rats). Instead use honey, stevia, or xylitol.
Bisphenol A (BPA): Associated with developmental problems in fetuses and infants.
Other additives such as MSG, food dyes, and preservatives.