Written By: Debjani Arora | Published : September 17, 2014 6:03 PM IST
Eating fish during pregnancy has a host of health benefits. It is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and proteins. Both these nutrients are important for the mother as well as the baby as it helps in fetal neurodevelopment. However, there is also some skepticism surrounding the same. This is because many a times pregnant women are advised not consume seafood, particularly raw or under-cooked fish during pregnancy due to fear of mercury contamination.
High levels of mercury in diet can cause damage to the central nervous system and the brain of the fetus. Despite these fears, many experts believe that the health benefits of fish override such concerns. Also read about the causes, symptoms and treatment of mercury poisoning.
Eating tuna during pregnancy
When it comes to fish consumption, there is still a debate over eating tuna when pregnant. In a general scenario, eating tuna during pregnancy is good for maternal and fetal health as it a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and other vital vitamins and minerals too.
But some recent studies show that tuna, like other sea fishes, might contain traces of mercury which can have an adverse effect on the baby. In the past it was thought that canned tuna which might contain 140g of it was safe if had twice a week. Recently, Consumer Report, a widely read magazine in the US urged pregnant women to go off tuna during pregnancy, overriding the FDA's recommendation on consumption of tuna.
This is because according to Consumer Report even canned tuna can have traces of mercury that can harm the fetus. This conclusion was drawn after The Yonkers, a non-profit organisation released a report on 'The Great Fish Debate.' In India, tuna is sold in local fish markets and is consumed widely. Also read seven foods that you should not consume during pregnancy.
However eating fish is not all that bad after all. In India, it is safe to consume fishes that are found in local ponds as their chances of containing traces of mercury are quite low. Remember that the protein found in the fish boosts brain development and vision too. Hence it is wise to be cautious while having fish and not take it off the plate completely.
So when it comes to eating fish during pregnancy, follow these rules:
Image source: Getty Images
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