Do I need to make changes to my diet?
Many women have concerns about foods they need to avoid during pregnancy. Apart from a few absolute nos, the underlying rule is to eat a healthy, balanced diet and to eat for one person, not two. There is no reason why you can’t be a vegetarian during pregnancy.
The main foods to avoid when expecting are soft cheeses (such as camembert and brie) and uncooked meat (including sandwich ham, sashimi and sashimi used in sushi). Cooked cheeses (like cheese on pizza) and cooked ham (as used sometimes in fried rice) are fine.
Otherwise, follow general principles about food handling, preparation and storage. Salads, fruits and vegetables should be fresh and properly cleaned. Leftover meat should be stored and re-heated properly (to steaming hot) only once before eating. Always wash your hands well after dealing with pet litter or children’s nappies.
The NSW Department of Health provides very comprehensive advice on food safety for pregnant women, which you can view here. If you have concerns, you should bring them up with Iris – she will be able to give you the guidance you need.