What not to eat during pregnancy: a safety guide for mums-to-be Discover the foods to avoid during pregnancy for your safety and your baby’s health. The food you eat not only energises your body but also nurtures the growth and development of your baby. Also read: What to eat and what not to eat during pregnancy? Cooking them thoroughly will kill the bacteria and viruses, but it is better to entirely avoid raw shellfish while pregnant. Alcohol intake increases the risk of foetal alcohol syndrome, developmental problems, and miscarriage.