Safe Summer Foods For Pregnant Women

At a Backyard Barbecue

Eat This: Grilled shish kebabs with well-cooked chicken and veggies are a satisfying, safe BBQ option.

Not That: While hot dogs that are cooked through to 165°F should be just fine, eliminate the risk of Listeria entirely by passing on them at your next cookout.

Source: Flickr users TheBusyBrain and VoxEfx

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At a Rooftop Happy Hour

Drink This: An icy, delicious Sparkling Mint Refresher is so satisfying, you won't envy your cocktail-sipping friends.

Not That: Do we really have to tell you why an alcohol-infused sipper is a bad idea?

Source: Thinkstock and Flickr user Jing-a-ling

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At Your Favorite Burger Joint

Eat This: Order your burgers cooked medium to medium-well.

Not That: Inadequately cooked meat is the leading cause of toxoplasmosis, a serious disease that babies can contract in the womb. If you typically order your meat rare or medium-rare, then remember to turn up the temps while you're pregnant.

Source: Cooking With My Kid

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At a Waterfront Seafood Spot

Eat This: Fish tacos are usually made with tilapia, cod, or other white fish that's low in mercury, and thereby a smart choice for expectant mamas.

Not That: To prevent harmful bacteria or viruses from affecting you or your baby, avoid raw fish or shellfish like oysters and clams.

Source: Flickr users Nicole Abalde and Dion Hinchcliffe

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At an Alfresco Lunch Date

Eat This: Keep your salad safe by making sure that it's free of sprouts (they can contain disease-causing bacteria), unpasteurized cheese, or dressing that has raw egg in it.

Not That: Caesar salad is a no-no during pregnancy, as its dressing contains raw or partially cooked eggs.

Source: Flickr users Wonderlane and Daremoshiranai

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At the Office

Drink This: The easiest way to ensure that you'll stay hydrated is by keeping a big bottle of water by your side. Spice things up by adding lemon or cucumber wedges for a flavor boost.

Not That: For many java junkies, iced coffee is the ultimate Summer sipper. While your doc may very well approve a cup or two of coffee a day, make sure that you don't get into the habit of refilling your venti cup all day long and losing track of your caffeine intake.

Source: Flickr users gxgn and joesahfeen

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