Is It Safe To Eat Fish And Seafood When I’m Pregnant?
There have been many debates as to what is safe to eat during pregnancy and what is not. Fish and other seafood is one such topic. The controversies regarding eating fish during pregnancy is mainly because of the many components and contaminants that fish may contain which can affect the developing fetus.
What Is The Risk?
The biggest risk is the fish containing high levels of mercury. Exposure to such levels of mercury is known to have adverse effect on the developing fetus. Apart from potential developmental defects, it may also lead to reproductive failure, stillbirth etc.Apart from mercury, another concern is the presence of contaminants like PCBs and pesticides. Often fish which are grown in farms are found to be contaminated. Such contamination can lead to miscarriages, preterm birth or developmental delays. Since it is hard to tell whether the fish in the market is from the wild or a private farm, many expectant mothers choose to avoid fish altogether during pregnancy.
The Advantages Of Eating Seafood:
Avoiding seafood altogether during pregnancy is not a wise move as seafood contains certain minerals which are essential for the developing fetus. The expecting mother needs high levels of protein, vitamins and minerals because her body now needs to provide nutrition for two. Seafood is a very good source of such proteins, vitamins and minerals. Also, fish are excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have shown that these fatty acids play a very important role in the development of the brain in the fetus. Thus, seafood can be an important part of the mother’s diet.
So, Which Ones Are Safe To Eat?
Seafood can be eaten during pregnancy provided moderation is maintained and the fish is chosen carefully. The fish which should be completely avoided are the ones with high mercury content. Some of those fish are shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish and tuna [both fresh and frozen]. These fish tend to be harmful for the baby.
The fish which are safe to eat are the ones with high levels of omega-3 and low levels of mercury and contaminants. Some of them are salmon, trout, sardines, herring, mackerel, pilchards, kipper, eel, whitebait, anchovies etc. it is good to try varieties of these fish from time to time but in moderate level without doubt.
Pointers For Safe Preparation:
Much of the safety of the food depends on how it is cooked. Same goes for the seafood. The trick is to clean it thoroughly before cooking. When the cooking is over, one should make sure the fish is completely cooked by making it stand for 4-5 minutes. Same goes for shell-fish or oysters. Anything raw may lead to food poisoning in the mother due to the presence of bacteria and viruses. Also, taking off the skin and trimming off the fatty areas will also make the fish healthy and safe enough for the mother.
Thus, eating seafood is fine provided one chooses the right ones, prepares it carefully i.e. well cooked and eats it moderately, like say twice a week.
