Food during Pregnancy - What is safe?

This topic will explore some of the popular food myths, fads surrounding pregnancy. It will provide light on whether you could take certain food additives and taste enhancers, popular nutrition boosters especially when you are pregnant.
Soy:  The most popular protein supplement taken all over the world now, but highly promoted in US. Although it does have a high value of protein in it, one can take advantage of it only when it is not over processed. Just like any other food item, it is better to take it in moderation and that too in its most natural form. Soy beans in a salad or snack is better than the soy present in cereal bars etc. More and more research is showing that Soy can replace natural estrogen and replace it with the plant estrogen, that Soy produces. It means that it sometimes can be good, and help with menopause and cancer cell growth, as well as cause infertility in some cases. So moderation is the key.
MSG: It is a popular additive in most processed foods and restaurant meals. MSG means Monosodium Glutamate. It is does not add any flavor by itself, but enhances the flavor of the food it is added to. Since it has no nutritional value and is high in sodium content, it is better to avoid it during pregnancy as some people have certain symptoms like headaches, dizziness, sleep disturbances, nausea and vomiting. Also high sodium means more retention of water in your body. Although some sodium is necessary for the metabolism of your body during pregnancy, MSG can stay off the menu. Since it is added to almost all the processed foods, including potato chips, soups etc it is advisable to read lables carefully. Another important thing to note is that even foods that say " No added MSG" is interpreted in the business world as "It may already contain MSG, its just that we did not add any more to it. " Just be watchful and stay away from processed foods.
Soft cheese and Listeria: Soft cheese is advisable to avoid during pregnancy as it may contain a bacteria called Listeria, which may be undetectable to naked eye. Unlike most bacteria, it does not cause any discoloration or change the smell and taste of it. Foods like eggs are also advised not to consume uncooked due to the presence of same bacteria. Soft cheeses that can easily become contaminated include Mexican-style soft cheeses like Queso Blanco, Queso Fresco, Queso de Hoja, Queso de Crema and Asadero. Other soft cheeses are Feta (goat cheese), Brie, Camembert and blue-veined cheeses like Roquefort.You can consume these cheeses if they are pasteurized or fully cooked. If infected, it can pose a serious threat to the baby inside. Also thorougly cook meat, poultry and sea food before consumption.

Last but not the least, check where you buy your seafood. Look up for the farms that the fish is coming from to check for mercury levels in them. Some fresh water fish and shell fish have high levels of mercury that can damage the baby's nervous system. Apart from these few things listed, you can enjoy a healthy and happy meal without a problem.