The short answer is yes. Certain bacterial infections are well established as possible miscarriage causes. Specific food-borne illnesses (a.k.a. food poisoning) that are linked to miscarriage include:
- Listeriosis
- Salmonella enterocolitis (also known as Salmonellosis)
- Toxoplasmosis
- E. coli enteritis
The best way to protect yourself from these food-borne infections, thus reducing risk of miscarriage and pregnancy loss, is to avoid foods at risk of contamination during pregnancy, be careful about eating in restaurants, and be vigilant when preparing food at home (cook all meats thoroughly and carefully wash all produce). At the same time, however, don't be afraid to eat everything -- remember that most disease-causing bacteria are killed by high heat, so in most cases pasteurized dairy products and meats cooked "well done" should be safe.
Sources:
American Pregnancy Association, "Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy." Nov 2007. Accessed 9 Jan 2008.
