A WORD FROM OUR EXPERT

Registered dietitian Leigh-Ann Silber

When you fall pregnant, your immune system changes, so that it can protect both you and your developing baby. Some parts of your immune system are enhanced, while others are suppressed. This creates a balance that can protect your growing baby from infections and keep you healthy at the same time. However, this puts you at greater risk of contracting food-borne illnesses.

For example, pregnant women are 20 times more likely than other healthy adults to develop listeriosis. The developing baby is at great risk when you contract a food-borne illness, even if it appears to be mild. It can have a detrimental effect on your baby, on you and deprive your baby of nourishment.