Wine When Pregnant?

This was me on our honeymoon in Dominican Republic (2 years ago).

This topic I know is a touchy one, as is any recommendation to pregnant women about what should and shouldn't do. I've learned that list is LONG, but of course every recommendation has arguments from the other side why it's not a big deal or an outdated rule.

One topic I've heard is "you can have a glass of wine when you're pregnant!" The fact is, I don't miss wine at all. In fact, I've enjoyed waking up with no headaches, and the super sharp way my mind feels at networking events when it's not clouded by a glass of wine. I find I'm more engaged in conversation, more interested in other aspects of an events besides the booze, and of course never question my ability to drive (I'd hesitate to drive sometimes even after one glass of wine, I'm a lightweight!)

So that said, I recently read this news article that claims drinking while pregnant could lead to better mental health in kids. While it did say that the study found kids did better behaviorally and emotionally around age seven when their moms had a drink or two when pregnant than those who abstained from drinking. But the study says there were a lot of other facts to consider, like overall health and lifestyle choices of these moms.

My thoughts? It's not worth it. If I can make a choice now that will benefit my future child, or that I won't be up at night worrying about, I'd rather skip it for 9 months. That said, this is the list that I've stuck with during my pregnancy so far of the things I've skipped or had in moderation. Everyone's list is different based on what their doctor recommends and friend/family advice, so there's no "right" list, that's for sure.

1. Coffee: I abstained throughout my first trimester as the fear of miscarriage paralyzed me. Once I hit the 12-week mark, I asked my doctor and he said a cup a day, and under 300 mg a day, was perfectly acceptable. I did my own research and agreed that I could finally have another, beautiful cup of coffee, right around the same time my horrific morning sickness was becoming less and less of a daily issue.

2. Lunch Meat: Skipping and not missing. In fact, I've gone almost entirely vegetarian, well more like Pescetarianism, and feel better than ever.

3. Sushi: Skipping raw sushi, but I've had a veggie roll here and there.

4. Smoked meat/processed meat: No sausage or hot dogs for me, and this hasn't been tough at all.

5. Soft cheeses (Brie, Feta, Goat): I've skipped these for the most part (the risk that they are unpasteurized or contaminated). Not sure I really even think that's worthwhile because the likelihood of being served unpasteurized cheese in the US is so low. So, in some instances I've had it if served at a work function or when I've been out to eat in a safe restaurant. Otherwise I skip the cheese altogether (on salads mostly) or ask for mozzarella.