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Raw seafood
Raw seafood can carry harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, including Salmonella, Listeria, and Vibrio. These pathogens can lead to foodborne illnesses that cause abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. In pregnancy, these illnesses can be more severe and lead to complications.
Some types of raw seafood, such as certain types of sushi and sashimi, can contain high levels of a toxic metal (mercury) – that can harm the fetus’s developing nervous system. High mercury exposure during pregnancy is associated with developmental issues.