What Seafood Is Safe for Pregnant Women to Eat?
Learn which seafood is safe and nutritious for pregnant women, including low-mercury options and safe consumption guidelines.
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Pregnant women can safely enjoy a variety of seafood that's low in mercury and high in omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon, sardines, anchovies, and trout are great options. It's recommended to eat 8 to 12 ounces of these fish weekly. However, avoid high-mercury fish like swordfish, shark, king mackerel, and tilefish. Always opt for fully cooked seafood over raw preparations to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
FAQs & Answers
- Which fish are safe to eat during pregnancy? Pregnant women can safely eat low-mercury fish such as salmon, sardines, anchovies, and trout, following recommended serving sizes.
- How much seafood can pregnant women safely eat per week? It is recommended that pregnant women eat between 8 to 12 ounces of low-mercury seafood per week.
- Why should pregnant women avoid certain types of fish? Pregnant women should avoid high-mercury fish like swordfish, shark, king mackerel, and tilefish because mercury can harm fetal development.
- Is it safe to eat raw seafood during pregnancy? No, pregnant women should always choose fully cooked seafood to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.