Food, Fish, Alcohol, and Smoking Before Pregnancy
Daily choices are easier to change when the plan is specific. Use this guide as a checklist for a preconception visit or a personal planning note.
Educational boundary: this article summarizes public-health guidance and does not replace individualized nutrition, addiction, or medical care.
Food pattern
Aim for a consistent, balanced food pattern before pregnancy. If you have diabetes, an eating disorder history, digestive disease, food insecurity, or major dietary restrictions, ask for tailored care before trying.
Fish and mercury
FDA advice supports fish as part of a healthy pattern and provides a chart for choices lower in mercury. People who might become pregnant can use that chart when planning meals and grocery lists.
Alcohol
When trying to get pregnant, ask your clinician how to handle alcohol. CDC guidance emphasizes avoiding alcohol when trying to get pregnant because early pregnancy may not be recognized immediately.
Tobacco and vaping
If you smoke, vape, or use nicotine, ask for cessation support before trying. Support can include counseling, medication review, quit-line resources, and follow-up.