Final answer:
A pregnant individual should avoid alcohol to prevent fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and fetal alcohol syndrome, which can cause severe developmental issues in the child. While caffeine is generally safe, pregnant individuals are advised to limit intake because of the absence of established safe quantities and the potential risks involved.
Step-by-step explanation:
Importance of Avoiding Alcohol and Limiting Caffeine During Pregnancy
Pregnant individuals are advised to avoid alcohol because it can cross the placenta and enter the embryo's or fetus's bloodstream, leading to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) or fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). These conditions include cognitive deficits, developmental delays, behavioral issues, and distinctive facial characteristics such as small eye openings, smooth philtrum, and a thin upper lip. During the critical period of the first eight weeks after fertilization, when major organs are forming, the risk of damage to developing body systems from alcohol exposure is particularly high.
With regard to caffeine, while it is not regulated and normally not harmful to most people, its use during pregnancy is cautioned. High blood levels can cause adverse effects such as insomnia, muscle twitching, and even serious health issues. For pregnant individuals, while there is no confirmed evidence of negative effects on the fetus, it is still recommended to limit caffeine intake due to potential risks and the absence of established safe quantities.