Can I Eat That While Pregnant?
Navigate pregnancy nutrition with our data-driven safety guides. 240 foods checked against ACOG, FDA, and WHO guidelines — so you don't have to guess.
240 results for “B” — clear search
Foods to Avoid (23)
AlcoholBeveragesNo safe amount during pregnancyAlfalfa sproutsFruits & VegetablesRaw sprouts frequently contaminated with Salmonella and E. coliAloe vera (internal)Herbs & SpicesOral aloe vera can stimulate uterine contractions; topical use is safeBéarnaise saucePrepared FoodsLike hollandaise — raw egg yolks at unsafe holding temperaturesBlack cohoshHerbs & SpicesHerbal supplement that can stimulate uterine contractionsBlue cheese (unpasteurized)Dairy & EggsMold-ripened cheeses pose Listeria riskBlue cohoshHerbs & SpicesDangerous herb that can cause fetal heart problems and uterine contractionsBrie cheeseDairy & EggsSoft mold-ripened cheese with Listeria risk unless cookedCake batter (raw)Sweets & TreatsRaw batter contains uncooked eggs and flour — unsafeCamembert cheeseDairy & EggsSoft mold-ripened cheese — Listeria risk same as brieDong quaiHerbs & SpicesTraditional Chinese herb that can stimulate uterine contractionsEnergy drinksBeveragesVery high caffeine and other stimulantsEvening primrose oilHerbs & SpicesMay stimulate uterine contractions; avoid especially in first and second trimesterKombuchaBeveragesFermented tea with unpredictable alcohol content and live bacteriaLicorice rootHerbs & SpicesGlycyrrhizin linked to preterm birth and impaired fetal brain developmentLicorice teaBeveragesGlycyrrhizin in licorice root linked to preterm birth and developmental issuesPennyroyalHerbs & SpicesHighly toxic herb historically used as abortifacient — never use in pregnancyPoke BowlSeafoodAvoid during pregnancy — poke bowls contain raw fish which poses risks of parasites, bacteria, and mercury exposure.Sprouts (raw)Fruits & VegetablesRaw sprouts frequently contaminated with bacteriaRed cloverHerbs & SpicesContains phytoestrogens that may affect fetal hormone developmentUnpasteurized juiceBeveragesRaw unpasteurized juice can contain harmful bacteriaPapaya (unripe)Fruits & VegetablesUnripe papaya contains latex that may trigger contractionsUnwashed produceFruits & VegetablesMust wash all produce thoroughly
Use Caution (38)
BaconMeat & PoultrySafe when fully cooked, but high in sodium and nitratesBanh MiPrepared FoodsHeat the pâté and cold meats — traditional banh mi contains pâté and cold cuts that carry listeria risk.Bean sproutsFruits & VegetablesSafe only when thoroughly cooked; raw poses bacterial riskBeef JerkyMeatsGenerally safe from commercial brands, but high in sodium and preservatives. Eat in moderation.Beef LiverLiver and organ meatsLiver is very high in preformed vitamin A (retinol). Limit to once per week.BibimbapPrepared FoodsSafe when the egg is fully cooked — ask for a well-done egg instead of the traditional runny egg on top.Black teaBeveragesContains caffeine; limit to stay under 200mg daily totalBolognaDeli MeatsHeat to steaming before eating — like all deli meats, bologna carries listeria risk when cold.Bubble Tea (Boba)BeveragesSafe in moderation — watch caffeine from tea base and high sugar content.Bubble Tea (Boba)BeveragesSafe in moderation — watch caffeine content from tea base and high sugar content from tapioca pearls and syrups.Buffet foodPrepared FoodsTemperature control issues at buffets increase bacterial riskHamburgersPrepared FoodsSafe when cooked to 160°F (well done) — ground beef must be fully cooked with no pink inside.Chai TeaBeveragesSafe in moderation — chai contains caffeine from black tea (40-70mg per cup). Limit to 1-2 cups daily.Herbal tea (chamomile)BeveragesGenerally safe in moderation, but not well-studiedClub SandwichPrepared FoodsHeat deli meats — cold turkey and ham in club sandwiches carry listeria risk.CoffeeBeveragesSafe in moderation; limit intake to 200mg of caffeine per day.DurianFruits & VegetablesHigh in sugar and calories; safe in small amountsEnergy BarsSnacksCheck ingredients — avoid bars with caffeine, guarana, ginseng, or herbal supplements. Most basic energy bars are safe.FenugreekHerbs & SpicesSmall culinary amounts likely safe; supplements may stimulate uterusFresh-squeezed juiceBeveragesRisk of bacterial contamination if unpasteurizedGreen teaBeveragesContains caffeine; limit to 1-2 cups dailyHalibut (cooked)SeafoodModerate mercury — limit to 6 oz per weekIced CoffeeBeveragesSafe in moderation — keep total daily caffeine intake under 200mg (about one 16oz iced coffee).JackfruitFruits & VegetablesGenerally safe but may cause allergic reactions; limited researchMatchaBeveragesSafe in moderation — limit to 1-2 cups daily due to caffeine content (about 70mg per cup).Non-Alcoholic BeerBeveragesGenerally considered safe — most NA beers contain 0.0-0.5% ABV, a negligible amount. Discuss with your doctor.Parsley (large amounts)Herbs & SpicesCulinary amounts safe; avoid medicinal dosesProtein ShakeBeveragesMost are safe — avoid shakes with herbal supplements, excessive caffeine, or unapproved sweeteners.Protein shakesBeveragesGenerally safe but many contain unregulated supplementsRaspberry leaf teaBeveragesTraditionally used to prepare uterus for labor — avoid in first trimesterRosemaryHerbs & SpicesSafe in cooking; large medicinal doses may stimulate uterusSageHerbs & SpicesSmall culinary amounts safe; large doses contain thujone which is unsafeRestaurant salad barsPrepared FoodsRisk of contamination from sitting outSeaweed (Nori)VegetablesSafe in moderate amounts — seaweed provides iodine but excessive consumption can lead to thyroid issues.SodaBeveragesHigh sugar and often caffeine; limit intakeSports drinksBeveragesUseful for hydration during illness; high sugar in regular useStarfruitFruits & VegetablesGenerally safe but contains oxalic acid; avoid with kidney issuesTonic WaterBeveragesSafe in small amounts — tonic water contains quinine which should be limited during pregnancy.
Generally Safe (179)
Acai BowlFruitsSafe and nutritious — acai berries are packed with antioxidants. Watch added sugar from toppings and sweeteners.Acai SmoothieBeveragesSafe when made with pasteurized acai — a nutritious antioxidant-rich beverage.Almond ButterNuts & SeedsSafe and nutritious — almond butter provides calcium, vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats.AnchoviesSeafoodVery low mercury; rich in omega-3s and calciumApple Slices with PBSnacksSafe — apples provide fiber, peanut butter adds protein.Apple Slices with Peanut ButterSnacksSafe and nutritious — apples provide fiber and vitamin C, peanut butter adds protein.AppleFruits & VegetablesSafe and nutritious; wash thoroughly before eatingAsparagusVegetablesExcellent pregnancy food — very high in folate, which is critical for neural tube development.Artificial sweeteners (aspartame)Sweets & TreatsGenerally safe in moderationAvocadoFruits & VegetablesExcellent source of healthy fats and folateBagelsGrainsSafe during pregnancy — a good source of carbohydrates and energy. Choose whole grain for more fiber.Baked PotatoVegetablesSafe and nutritious — baked potatoes provide potassium, fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.Baked ZitiPrepared FoodsSafe — pasta baked with pasteurized cheese and cooked sauce.BaklavaSweetsSafe — fully baked pastry with nuts and honey syrup.Banana BreadGrainsSafe when fully baked — a nutritious baked good providing potassium and fiber.BananaFruits & VegetablesSafe and helpful for nausea; rich in potassiumBananasFruitsSafe and excellent for pregnancy — bananas provide potassium, B6 (helps with nausea), and quick energy.BasilHerbs & SpicesSafe in culinary amounts; avoid medicinal-dose supplementsBBQ SauceCondimentsSafe during pregnancy — BBQ sauce is cooked and shelf-stable.Beef BrisketMeatsSafe — brisket is slow-smoked/cooked for hours, far exceeding safe temperatures.Beef steak (cooked)Meat & PoultrySafe when cooked to medium or well-doneBeef StewPrepared FoodsSafe and nutritious — the long simmering process thoroughly cooks all ingredients.Beef StroganoffPrepared FoodsSafe when beef is fully cooked — a classic comfort meal.Ground Beef TacosPrepared FoodsSafe when ground beef reaches 160°F with no pink.BeetsFruits & VegetablesSafe and rich in folate and ironBell pepperFruits & VegetablesExcellent vitamin C source; safe raw or cookedBerriesFruits & VegetablesSafe and highly nutritious when washedBirria TacosPrepared FoodsSafe — birria meat is slow-braised for hours, far exceeding safe temperatures.BiscuitsGrainsSafe during pregnancy — biscuits are fully baked. Both homemade and canned (Pillsbury) are safe.BisonLamb, goat, gameSafe when cooked to proper internal temperature.Black Bean SoupPrepared FoodsSafe — beans are thoroughly cooked. Excellent source of folate and iron.BLT SandwichPrepared FoodsSafe — bacon is fully cooked and lettuce/tomato are safe when washed.BlueberriesFruitsSafe and a superfood for pregnancy — packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber.BreadGrainsSafe during pregnancy — all types of bread are safe. Whole grain varieties provide more fiber and nutrients.BroccoliFruits & VegetablesNutritional powerhouse safe and beneficial during pregnancyBrown riceGrains & StarchesNutritious whole grain; limit to 2 servings/week due to arsenicBrowniesSweetsSafe when baked — do not eat raw batter.BruschettaPrepared FoodsSafe during pregnancy — bruschetta is made from toasted bread topped with cooked/fresh ingredients.Brussels SproutsVegetablesSafe and highly nutritious — rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and fiber.Buffalo SauceCondimentsSafe — buffalo/hot wing sauce is made from cayenne peppers and vinegar.BulgogiPrepared FoodsSafe when beef is fully cooked — Korean marinated grilled beef.BurritoPrepared FoodsSafe when meat and fillings are properly cooked — a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and vegetables.Butter ChickenPrepared FoodsSafe — chicken cooked in creamy tomato sauce with safe spices.ButterDairy & EggsSafe in moderation; made from pasteurized creamButternut Squash SoupPrepared FoodsSafe — squash is thoroughly cooked. Rich in vitamin A and fiber.Canned meatMeat & PoultrySafe as canning process kills bacteria; watch sodiumCarrotsFruits & VegetablesSafe and rich in beta-carotene for fetal developmentCatfish (cooked)SeafoodLow-mercury fish safe to eat 2-3 times per weekCauliflower RiceVegetablesSafe — riced cauliflower is safe whether fresh or frozen.CauliflowerVegetablesSafe and nutritious — high in vitamin C, folate, and fiber. A versatile vegetable for pregnancy.Celery JuiceBeveragesSafe in moderation — celery juice provides hydration and vitamins but should not replace meals.CeleryFruits & VegetablesSafe hydrating vegetable; wash thoroughlyCheddar cheeseDairy & EggsSafe when made from pasteurized milkChicken BiryaniPrepared FoodsSafe when chicken is cooked to 165°F — aromatic rice dish with safe spices.Chicken BreastMeatsSafe when cooked to 165°F — the leanest, highest-protein cut of chicken.Chicken (cooked)Meat & PoultrySafe when cooked to 165°F internal temperatureChickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)LegumesExcellent pregnancy food — high in folate, protein, iron, and fiber. A nutritional powerhouse.ChocolateSweets & TreatsSafe in moderation; contains some caffeineCinnamonHerbs & SpicesSafe in culinary amounts; may help blood sugar regulationClams (cooked)SeafoodSafe when fully cooked; excellent iron sourceCobb SaladPrepared FoodsSafe with hard-boiled eggs, cooked chicken, and pasteurized cheese.Coconut Milk (Beverage)Dairy AlternativesSafe during pregnancy — the beverage carton version is lower in fat than canned coconut milk.Coconut waterBeveragesNatural electrolyte drink safe during pregnancyCod (cooked)SeafoodSafe and low in mercury when cookedColby CheeseCheeseSafe when made from pasteurized milk (all US commercial products are).Cooked sushi rollsPrepared FoodsFully cooked sushi rolls are safe during pregnancyCorn on the CobVegetablesSafe and delicious — corn on the cob provides fiber, B vitamins, and is thoroughly cooked.CornFruits & VegetablesSafe whole grain vegetable; good fiber sourceCornbreadGrainsSafe — fully baked from cornmeal, flour, eggs, and milk.Cottage cheeseDairy & EggsSafe and high in protein when pasteurizedCrab CakesSeafoodSafe when cooked through — uses pre-cooked crab meat.Crab (cooked)SeafoodSafe when fully cooked; low mercury shellfishCranberry JuiceBeveragesSafe and may help prevent UTIs — choose unsweetened or low-sugar varieties during pregnancy.Cream cheeseDairy & EggsSafe when made from pasteurized milk (commercial brands)CucumberFruits & VegetablesHydrating and safe; helps with swellingDatesFruits & VegetablesNutritious fruit; some evidence supports eating in late pregnancyDecaf coffeeBeveragesSafe option with minimal caffeine (2–15mg per cup)EggplantVegetablesSafe during pregnancy — despite old wives' tales, eggplant does not cause miscarriage or induce labor.Elk MeatLamb, Veal, and Game ProductsSafe when cooked to proper internal temperature.Feta cheese (pasteurized)Dairy & EggsSafe when made from pasteurized milkFigsFruits & VegetablesSafe and rich in calcium, iron, and fiberFlounder (cooked)SeafoodLow-mercury flatfish safe to eat 2-3 times per weekFortified cerealsGrains & StarchesExcellent source of folic acid and iron when fortifiedGarlic BreadGrainsSafe — fully baked bread with garlic and butter.GarlicFruits & VegetablesSafe in culinary amounts; may have immune benefitsGinger AleBeveragesSafe during pregnancy — a popular remedy for morning sickness. Choose varieties with real ginger for best effect.GingerHerbs & SpicesSafe and helpful for nauseaGranola BarsSnacksSafe during pregnancy — a convenient snack. Choose bars with nuts, seeds, and minimal added sugar.GranolaGrains & StarchesSafe in moderation; can be high in sugar and caloriesGrapesFruits & VegetablesSafe in moderation; wash thoroughlyGreek Yogurt BowlDairySafe — Greek yogurt with fruit and granola is one of the best pregnancy snacks.Greek yogurtDairy & EggsExcellent protein and probiotic sourceGreen BeansVegetablesSafe and nutritious — green beans provide folate, fiber, vitamin C, and iron.Ground beef (cooked)Meat & PoultrySafe when cooked to 160°F throughout — no pink remainingHerring (cooked)SeafoodLow-mercury fish with excellent omega-3 contentHoney Lemon TeaBeveragesSafe and soothing — honey and lemon in hot water is a classic remedy for sore throat and nausea.HorchataBeveragesSafe — rice-based beverage with cinnamon.Hot ChocolateBeveragesSafe during pregnancy — hot chocolate has very little caffeine (5-10mg per cup). Watch sugar content.Hot Cocoa MixBeveragesSafe — hot cocoa has minimal caffeine (5-10mg). A comforting warm beverage.Ice creamDairy & EggsSafe when pasteurized (commercial brands)Imitation Crab (Surimi)SeafoodSafe during pregnancy — imitation crab is fully cooked during manufacturing and low in mercury.JambalayaPrepared FoodsSafe when all meats and seafood are fully cooked — a flavorful, balanced one-pot meal.KaleFruits & VegetablesExcellent source of folate, calcium, and ironKiwiFruits & VegetablesExcellent vitamin C and folate sourceLamb ChopsMeatsSafe when cooked to at least 145°F with a 3-minute rest — lamb is a great source of iron and B12.Lamb (cooked)Meat & PoultrySafe when cooked to 145°F; good iron sourceLemonadeBeveragesSafe during pregnancy — lemonade provides vitamin C and hydration. Watch sugar content.Lobster (cooked)SeafoodSafe when fully cooked; low in mercuryMackerel (Atlantic)SeafoodAtlantic mackerel is low in mercury and high in omega-3sMango LassiBeveragesSafe — made from pasteurized yogurt and mango. Provides probiotics and vitamin C.MangoFruits & VegetablesSafe and rich in vitamins A and CMeatballsMeatsSafe when cooked to 160-165°F — ensure ground meat is fully cooked with no pink inside.Pasteurized milkDairy & EggsExcellent source of calcium and vitamin D when pasteurizedMilkshakeBeveragesSafe — pasteurized ice cream and milk.Mozzarella cheeseDairy & EggsSafe when pasteurized; fresh mozzarella should be checkedMushroomsFruits & VegetablesSafe when cooked; good vitamin D sourceMussels (cooked)SeafoodSafe when fully cooked; nutrient-dense shellfishOatmealGrains & StarchesHighly nutritious whole grain; helps with constipationOnionFruits & VegetablesSafe in normal culinary amountsPasteurized orange juiceBeveragesSafe and rich in vitamin COreganoHerbs & SpicesSafe as a cooking herb; avoid concentrated supplementsPastaGrains & StarchesSafe energy source; choose whole grain for more nutrientsPB&J SandwichPrepared FoodsSafe — peanut butter, jelly, and bread are all safe during pregnancy.Peanut ButterNuts & SeedsSafe and highly nutritious — an excellent source of protein, folate, and healthy fats during pregnancy.Peppermint teaBeveragesCaffeine-free; may help with nausea and indigestionPineappleFruits & VegetablesSafe in normal amounts despite mythsPita BreadGrainsSafe during pregnancy — pita bread is fully baked and often made with enriched flour.Cooked Poke BowlSeafoodSafe when made with cooked protein — choose grilled salmon, shrimp, or tofu instead of raw fish.Pollock (cooked)SeafoodVery low mercury; commonly used in fish sticks and sandwichesPomegranateFruits & VegetablesRich in antioxidants and folate; safe during pregnancyPork (cooked)Meat & PoultrySafe when cooked to 145°FPotatoesFruits & VegetablesSafe and filling; good source of potassium and B6Protein BarsSnacksGenerally safe — choose bars without excessive caffeine, herbs, or artificial sweeteners. Great for on-the-go protein.Prune JuiceBeveragesSafe and recommended — an excellent natural remedy for pregnancy constipation.QuinoaGrains & StarchesComplete protein grain with all essential amino acidsRabbit MeatLamb, Veal, and Game ProductsSafe when cooked to proper internal temperature.Reuben SandwichPrepared FoodsSafe — the grilling process heats corned beef to safe temperature.Ricotta cheeseDairy & EggsSafe when pasteurized; common in cooked dishesPapaya (ripe)Fruits & VegetablesRipe papaya is safe and nutritiousSardines (canned)SeafoodExcellent low-mercury fish rich in omega-3s and calciumScallops (cooked)SeafoodSafe when fully cooked; low mercury and high proteinShrimp (cooked)SeafoodSafe when fully cookedSmoothie BowlBeveragesSafe when made with pasteurized ingredients — nutritious but watch sugar from toppings.SmoothieBeveragesSafe and nutritious — homemade smoothies are an excellent way to pack in fruits, vegetables, and protein.SmoothiesBeveragesNutritious when made with safe ingredients and pasteurized dairySour creamDairy & EggsSafe when made from pasteurized cream (commercial brands)Sparkling waterBeveragesSafe hydration alternative to still waterSpinachFruits & VegetablesExcellent source of folate and iron when washedSteviaSweets & TreatsNatural zero-calorie sweetener considered safe in pregnancyStore-bought mayonnaisePrepared FoodsCommercial mayo uses pasteurized eggs — safe during pregnancyStrawberriesFruitsSafe and highly nutritious — strawberries are rich in vitamin C, folate, and fiber.SucraloseSweets & TreatsGenerally considered safe in moderation during pregnancySweet CornVegetablesSafe and nutritious — corn provides folate, fiber, and is a good source of energy during pregnancy.Sweet potatoFruits & VegetablesExcellent source of beta-carotene and fiberThymeHerbs & SpicesSafe in culinary amounts; good source of vitamin CTilapia (cooked)SeafoodSafe, low-mercury option when cookedTomatoFruits & VegetablesSafe and rich in lycopene and vitamin CTrout (cooked)SeafoodLow-mercury freshwater fish safe during pregnancyTteokbokkiPrepared FoodsSafe — Korean rice cakes cooked in gochujang sauce.Turkey BaconMeatsSafe when cooked until crispy — turkey bacon follows the same cooking guidelines as regular bacon.Turkey BreastPepperoni, Salami & Cold CutsSafe when cooked to proper internal temperature.Turkey (cooked)Meat & PoultrySafe when cooked to 165°F; lean protein sourceTurmericHerbs & SpicesSafe in food amountsUnpasteurized honeySweets & TreatsRaw honey is safe for pregnant women (botulism risk is only for infants under 1)Sushi (vegetarian)Prepared FoodsSafe option for sushi loversVeggie BurgerPrepared FoodsSafe when cooked according to directions — veggie burgers are safe whether homemade or commercial.Vegetable PizzaPrepared FoodsSafe — vegetable toppings on pizza are cooked during baking.Vegetable SoupPrepared FoodsSafe — simmered vegetables in broth, one of the healthiest pregnancy meals.Vegetable Stir-FryPrepared FoodsSafe — high-heat wok cooking quickly cooks everything.Vegetable WrapPrepared FoodsSafe — vegetables, hummus, and cheese in a tortilla are all safe.Virgin MojitoBeveragesSafe — non-alcoholic lime and mint drink.WaterBeveragesEssential for pregnancy; aim for 8-10 cups dailyWatermelonFruits & VegetablesHydrating and safe; helps with swelling and heartburnWhipped creamDairy & EggsSafe when commercially made from pasteurized creamWhite riceGrains & StarchesSafe and easy to digest; lower arsenic than brown riceWhole wheat breadGrains & StarchesExcellent fiber and B vitamin source for pregnancyXylitolSweets & TreatsSugar alcohol considered safe in pregnancy; may benefit dental healthZucchini Noodles (Zoodles)VegetablesSafe — spiralized zucchini is safe raw or cooked.ZucchiniVegetablesSafe and nutritious — mild, versatile, and easy to digest. Great for pregnancy nausea.
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about dietary changes during pregnancy.