If you have recently learned that you were pregnant, you may be scouring the Internet or talking to friends or family about what you can and cannot do during pregnancy. There are a lot of myths and old wives' tales related to what you should eat and should not eat during pregnancy. Here are a few of the most common myths related to pregnancy and food, and the truth surrounding these myths. 

Myth 1: You Need to Eat for Two

One of the most common myths surrounding pregnancy and food is that you need to eat for two since you are now carrying another life inside of you. However, most women only need to eat an extra 300 calories per day during the course of their pregnancy. If you are underweight, a doctor may recommend that you up the calories to 500 per day. Women do not need to eat for two and consume double the amount of calories. This can lead to too much weight gain, which can be unhealthy for both mother and baby. 

Myth 2: You Cannot Have Caffeine

Another common myth related to pregnancy and food pertains to caffeine. Having too much caffeine during pregnancy can be harmful. As such, you should limit your intake. However, this does not mean that you cannot have any caffeine at all. Someone who is having a healthy pregnancy can typically have one to two cups of coffee per day or a soda or two, without any fear of harm to themselves or their baby. 

Myth 3: Certain Foods Can Cause or Prevent Food Allergies 

The final myth related to pregnancy and food is that the foods you eat during your pregnancy can cause or prevent food allergies. People believe that if you eat peanuts or milk, you can prevent an allergy or even cause one. There is no scientific data that what you eat can cause or prevent food allergies. 

Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions, old wives' tales or outdated material floating around on the internet and in people's minds. Once people hear you are pregnant, they may pass along this information to you, thinking they are being helpful. If you have any questions about what you can and cannot do or should or should not eat during pregnancy, it is best to talk to your obstetrician. An obstetrician specializes in pregnant women and delivering babies. They can provide you with current information and help you to safely navigate your pregnancy. If you have any questions, visit a clinic like Desert Rose OBGYN PC near you.