DOHA: To mark the World Health Day, which focused on food safety this year, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is encouraging women to be particularly cautious about their nutrition during pregnancy.
Dr Faten Al Taher, Senior Consultant, HMC’s Women’s Hospital, said: “Consumption of safe food and maintaining a healthy diet is important at all times; however, during pregnancy it becomes much more important since women undergo hormonal changes that affect their immune system.
“This means that it becomes harder for their bodies to resist infections and they are at an increased risk of developing certain kinds of food-borne illnesses.”
According to World Health Organisation (WHO), consumption of unsafe food can lead to health problems, including reproductive and developmental complications.
In some cases, food-related diseases may lead to miscarriage, stillbirth or serious health troubles for the baby after birth.
“It is important for women to be aware that their health behaviour, specifically food habits, will directly affect their baby’s health.
“We want women to embrace their role as healthcare champions within their families and be proactive in ensuring food is handled and consumed safely,” Dr Al Taher added.
Taking some easy steps while handling food can eliminate food-related health risks, she said.
“One of the easiest safety measures is to ensure that mothers practise personal hygiene. This includes washing hands well with soap and warm water for a minimum of 20 seconds before touching any food items, after using the toilet, and after touching pets,” she added.
“To avoid cross-contamination, all knives, cutting boards and food preparation counters should be washed and disinfected with soap and warm water, specifically after touching raw poultry, meat and seafood.
“All fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables, including those with skin, should be thoroughly rinsed before eating,” stressed Dr Al Taher.
It is advisable to store eggs as well as other perishable food in the refrigerator and use all precooked or ready-to-eat meals as soon as possible.
“Some types of foods such as raw or uncooked meat, poultry, seafood, unwashed fruits or vegetables, soft cheeses can be contaminated with certain kinds of bacteria, which may be harmful for expectant women. It is advised that meat should be fully cooked, and all vegetables and fruits properly washed.”The Peninsula
