It is important to know the list of safe fish during pregnancy and fishes to avoid during pregnancy. What are the benefits and risks of eating fish during pregnancy? Know these details before eating fish during pregnancy.
Fishes are rich in proteins, vitamin D, and Omega-3 fatty acids that are necessary for the development of the baby.
Fish proves to be rich sources of these fatty acids and DHA in addition to milk and eggs.
Increased protein intake is essential for the formation of muscle, bones, skin, and hair of the growing fetus. Fish are good sources of proteins and has the additional advantage of being low in saturated fats.
Vitamin D is a crucial ingredient for calcium absorption. Calcium is very much needed for the formation of bones and teeth in babies. Fish provides the required vitamin D for the healthy functioning of the body.
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Consumption of a variety of fish helps to avail a wide range of nutrients.
The risk of obesity reduces with the consumption of fish.
The rapid development of the brain and nervous system of the baby takes place during the last trimester which demands more amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and DHA (Docosa Hexaenoic acid).
Be aware of the fishes that contain high levels of mercury and other metals. Avoid fishes that are high in mercury to prevent the accumulation of mercury in the bloodstream.
List of safe fish during pregnancy
Fishes that are low in mercury can be included in the diet of pregnant women.
- Indian Salmon (Rawas)
- Indian Mackerel (Bangada)
- Pomfret (Butterfish)
- Anchovies
- Herring
- Hilsa
- Rohu
- Katla
Fishes to avoid during pregnancy
Fishes that contain high levels of mercury should be avoided.
- Shark
- King Mackerel
- Swordfish
- Tuna
- Tilefish
- Orange roughy
FAQs
Is it safe to eat fish during pregnancy?
Fish are safe to eat during pregnancy as they are loaded with proteins and essential fatty acids required for the healthy growth of the baby.
Make sure to cook the fish properly to avoid any infections invading the body of the mother. Avoid shellfish and fish caught from local water sources.
Is fish good for the womb?
Consumption of fish reduces the risk of preterm labor and perinatal depression. Eating fish twice or more a week provides the needed DHA and omega-3 fatty acids and other numerous health benefits for the mother and baby.
Consuming fish while pregnant improves the cognitive abilities of the baby. Including fish helps a eat a balanced meal.
Is fish good for the fetus?
Fish provides protein, zinc, and iron which are vital for the growth and development of the baby. An increase in cognitive scores of the children is observed with the intake of fish during pregnancy and it lowers the prevalence of autism in early childhood.
Can I eat fish every day during pregnancy?
Eating fish every day can be beneficial for pregnant women and the fetus. Consume fish for 3-4 days a week and try to include foods from various food groups to avail all the essential vitamins and nutrients.
Ensure the fish is thoroughly cooked before consumption to safeguard yourself from any unwanted illnesses.
Can I eat fish at night during pregnancy?
Fish can be eaten at night in limited quantities. It depends upon the type of fish and the methods used for cooking them. Avoid fried fish at night to prevent digestive issues and chances of weight gain.
The fats in oils used for frying fish can add to your weight gain in the long run. Fish contains good quality proteins and low amounts of saturated fats that promote a healthy pregnancy.
Can fish affect early pregnancy?
Eating raw fish can pose some health problems in early pregnancy. Some people may feel nauseatic during early pregnancy which can make them stay away from the odor of fish. Contaminated fish can cause food poisoning which can rise the risk of miscarriages.
How much fish can a pregnant woman eat?
A pregnant woman can eat 2-3 servings of fish low in mercury along with other foods from various food groups. Fish are low in fat and can be swapped for other protein sources like meat and poultry that may contain various concentrations of fat.
Fish cooked in the form of curries and grilled form contain few calories when compared to fried ones. One should consider the sodium and cholesterol content obtained through the cooking process for healthy eating habits.
What are the side effects of fish during pregnancy?
Fish does not pose any side effects. Some fish may be contaminated with mercury, dioxins, and residues from pesticides which are harmful to pregnant mothers and their babies.
High levels of mercury can hinder the brain and nervous system development in the fetus and lead to nerve damage in adults.
Is fish good for pregnancy in the first trimester?
Fish should be a part of the healthy diet for a pregnant woman. Fish low in mercury are highly nutritious and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and DHA needed for the growth of the baby.
Better knowledge about the types of fish and their harmful side effects can help you choose the best fish to consume. Omega-3 fatty acids help to lower the levels of triglycerides and blood pressure levels.
Is fish good for pregnancy second trimester?
Fish are always regarded as healthy during the entire expecting period. Fish usually breed during the monsoon season. Restrict the consumption of fish and other seafood during this season as most of the fish you buy from the stores is mainly frozen/canned.
Transporting perishable items involves the use of preservatives and some chemicals which may harm the health of the pregnant woman.
Is fish good for pregnancy in the third trimester?
Fish are good sources of lean proteins and omega-3 fatty acids which the body cannot synthesize on its own. Fish are good sources of iodine, selenium, copper, zinc, vitamin B12, and iron which support the healthy growth of the fetus.
How to wash fish when pregnant?
Fish can carry a lot of microorganisms and infections while transporting and handling. Contaminated fish can affect the health of the pregnant woman.
If you’re buying whole fish, scrape off the scales, remove the inners, wash well under a good stream of tap water, soak in a mixture of turmeric powder, rock salt, and water for a few minutes and drain off the excess water.
A solution of vinegar and water can also help to remove impurities and germs.
Why fish should be avoided during pregnancy?
Some fish may contain high levels of mercury that may accumulate in the bloodstream. The development of the brain and nervous system can be affected to a greater extent by too much mercury.
Some traces of metals found in rivers, oceans, and lakes enters the body of fish and stays in the fish for a long time. When a pregnant woman consumes this type of fish, the mercury from the fish enters the pregnant woman and can cause severe complications in the baby’s growth.