How can I avoid food poisoning?
When you're pregnant, food poisoning can be confused with typical morning sickness or some other tummy trouble. But if the symptoms catch you off guard, feel…
When you're pregnant, food poisoning can be confused with typical morning sickness or some other tummy trouble. But if the symptoms catch you off guard, feel different from your usual queasiness, or you took a chance with something past its prime, you might have fallen ill.
Don't worry, the most important thing is to keep your baby safe. Generally, food poisoning doesn't affect your baby, even if you feel terrible. But beware, some bacteria like listeria can be dangerous for your little one. Fortunately, it's rare to get them if you avoid raw and unpasteurized foods.
Now, how to fight this bug? The most important thing is to avoid dehydration, drink water like there's no tomorrow! Take small sips at first and then increase the amounts. You can mix an energy drink with water to replenish lost electrolytes, but don't go crazy with the sugars!
Obviously, consult your doctor, who will give you instructions to make sure you feel better soon and you and your baby are healthy and safe. If you feel very dehydrated, and vomiting and diarrhea won't let up, you might need to get administered intravenous fluids.
To avoid this nasty experience, here are some tips:
- No raw foods. Cook everything thoroughly!
- Keep raw stuff separate from things ready to eat.
- Watch the temperature and refrigerate or freeze the food.
- Clean hands, happy tummy! Wash your hands before eating and after using the bathroom.
- Make sure all the plates and utensils you use are squeaky clean.
- Heat up deli meats before eating them (but try to avoid them entirely).
- Fruits and veggies need to be washed too.
- And watch out for the expiration date, don't ignore it.
- Even if it's tempting, avoid eating out.
