How strict are you with the pregnancy food 'rules'?

[MummyNaomi]

I am LTTTC AML and still eat fairly freely... I am sure that this history makes an impact, but it's not the sole factor. I simply don't believe the risk is big.

Agreed, I also love Artechim's Listeria Hysteria comment, have used it myself in the past, its very true in my mind. I totally understand and respect why some pg woman would rather err on the side of caution though. However I have always embraced my pregnancies and I guess what I see as a bit of a media/info beat up isn't a risk or something I am prepared to worry about or fear.

[toomanyshoes]

For me it's not worth the risk even while just TTC!

For me any risk is too risky, but I dont judge others who think differently.

[gravychic]

I'm pretty relaxed and just use common sense, try to make sure the food i eat is fresh and hasn't been sitting under the sun etc, but its really no more cautious than i would be in most other situations ie whilst not pregnant.

The only things i have tried to avoid/really limit are caffeine, processed food, stuff in food courts thats been sitting all day and soft serve but thats about it, oh and no alcohol. I talked to my midwife when i first got pregnant and she told me to be careful and not eat A B and C, but that the incidence listeria causing problems in the last few years was extremely minimal, like under 5 cases in Australia. That really a drop in the ocean if you ask me!

I have eaten subway, med rare steaks, runny eggs, pate, raw bacon... It's not that i run out and start eating pounds of unwashed salad or deli meats that have been sitting in the fridge for a week, but if I also don't freak out and start stressing if i eat a few of the 'banned' items if i know they are fresh, because the risks are really quite low IMHO.

[Maruschke]

I'd never judge anyone who chooses to be "strict" on the food rules. If that's your choice then that's great! And I honestly mean that... if your choice is to abide by the often given rules I think you are doing really well. It's just my choice not to, and that is OK as well.

Desmond Tutu (I really don't like him in general, but this quote is ok) said... I don't mind if people look down on me, so long as they don't ask me to look up to them.

So true! I don't feel like anyone here has looked down on me, but I've given up caring and frankly wouldn't be bothered if anyone did. It's pure freedom .

I say we all do what we think is best and respect the decisions of others and all is well in the world.

This post sounds a bit more snarky than it should but I'm sick of editing it. I promise, I honestly do mean that I respect whatever choice you've made for you and your bub.