Is it safe to eat fish in pregnancy?

The FDA suggests that women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive consume more fish. It is recommended that women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or plan on becoming pregnant consume fish that's low in methyl mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Fish have vital nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, protein and minerals such as iron. These nutrients are essential, as they stimulate healthy fetal, infant, and childhood development.

Benefits of Eating Fish during Pregnancy

Omega-3 DHA: Omega 3 is one of the most important nutrients that we need during pregnancy.  Omega 3 is necessary for the growth of your baby’s eyes and brain, and the absence of omega 3 is believed to increase the risk of post-natal depression. In high-risk pregnancies, a higher intake of long chain omega 3 has reduced the risk of premature births.

Protein: Protein is necessary to build a baby’s skin, muscle, hair, and bones. Fish and shellfish, dairy like cottage cheese, eggs, beans, peanut butter, and are all good sources of protein.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps the body absorb nutrients like calcium, which is necessary to build the baby’s bones, teeth, heart, nerves, and muscles as well as keeps moms’ bones and teeth strong.  Vitamin D may also help reduce the chance of high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Iron: Iron helps in carrying oxygen from a woman’s bloodstream to her baby.  Iron also helps to keep the mother’s immunity strong.