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Health Calendar

The Pregnancy Health Information Line, a nonprofit based at the University of California, San Diego, recently issued a press release with the heading &ldquo;Pregnancy Dangers May Be Lurking on the Dinner Table.&rdquo; No, it&rsquo;s not a warning about Uncle Fred and the carving knife. It&rsquo;s about how many drinks and foods commonly served as appetizers or main courses during the holidays can lead to pregnancy problems.
 Take our quiz on the dangers.
 1. Alcohol is not recommended, but for pregnant women, which of the following holiday treats does not contain hidden alcohol? 
a) rum balls 
b) eggnog 
c) spiced rum 
d) cranberry relish

 2. Why are soft cheeses, such as brie, feta and Camembert, a concern?
 a) Digestion is hindered by an adverse reaction with the placental lining of the uterus.
 b) Unpasteurized milk can contain the bacteria listeria monocytogenes.
 c) The high saturated fat content of the cheese can lead to early-onset obesity for the fetus.

 3. What are among the effects of the bacteria called listeria monocytogenes on a developing baby?
 a) miscarriage 
b) uterine infection 
c) premature labor 
d) all of the above

 4. Hot dogs can also be breeding grounds for listeria monocytogenes. What do the experts say to do to better ensure a hot dog is safe to eat? 
a) Reheat until steaming hot
 b) Heat, then chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes
c) Toss it in the garbage disposal

 5. Large predator fish (tuna, shark, tilefish, king mackerel) contain traces of methylmercury, which can lead to birth defects such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation and blindness. Researchers recommend consuming no more than what amount? 
a) 5 ounces a day
 b) 12 ounces a week
 c) 1 pound per trimester
 d) none at all 
&mdash;ANSWERS: 1: d; 2: b; 3: d; 4: a; 5: b
From AP wire service