Foods to Avoid When Pregnant:
Fish or No Fish?
If you are concerned with which foods to avoid when pregnant, you are
probably wondering if you should avoid fish. Though fish has always
been considered a healthy source of protein, the levels of contaminants
have recently raised concern.
Foods to Avoid When Pregnant |
What contaminants should I be worried about if I am pregnant or nursing?
Methylmercury and polychlorinated biphenyls levels are the main
contaminants of concern, especially for pregnant and nursing women.
According the FDA, trace amounts of methylmercury are not harmful.
What are the possible risks associated with excessive consumption of contaminated fish?
Eating fish with high levels of methylmercury can cause damage to the unborn baby’s nervous system.
Do I need to avoid all fish if I am pregnant?
No, but you do need to avoid some fish and you need to limit your fish consumption.
Which types of fish should I completely avoid during pregnancy and while nursing?
These fish tend to be high in methylmercury and should be avoided:
- Shark
- Swordfish
- Tilefish
- King Mackerel
Why do these particular fish contain so much methylmercury?
These fish tend to be high because they are larger and live longer, causing them to absorb more methylmercury.
Which fish is safe to consume?
Canned fish, farm-raised fish, smaller ocean fish, and shellfish are
considered safe to eat in moderation. You should only eat an average of
12 ounces of these types of fish per week, with the exception of
albacore tuna. Do not exceed 6 ounces per week of
albacore tuna (the white tuna). Keep in mind that usually the portion
size for fish is 3-6 ounces, so use moderation!
What are some of the health benefits of eating fish?
Fish is a lean source of protein, and also contains nutrients such as
iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Unlike many types of meat, fish is
very low in saturated fat, which makes it a good choice for preventing
heart disease.
One word of
caution: avoid fried and raw fish! Fried fish is going to be high in
fat and high in calories. It would not have the same “healthy” aspects
to it if it has been cooked in fat! It is also recommended that
pregnant women avoid raw fish in order to avoid food-borne illness.
There
are other foods to avoid when pregnant besides certain fish. Nutrition
during pregnancy can affect you and your baby’s health, so be sure you
follow a healthy diet for pregnant women.
Comments
Post a Comment