MEDICAL SOLUTIONS ZONE

Eating fish while pregnant

Eating fish is one of the most nutritious choices women can find on the menu while they are pregnant or going to be so. With its incredible nutrients like omega-3's, lean protein and B vitamins, fish can be a great choice. But pregnant women or who are trying to get pregnant, have to think not only about the good things that can come with each bite of their food, but also about the potential harm.

Some fishes can contain unhealthy contaminants like mercury that can affect the nervous system and the brain. For that reason, when women are trying to get pregnant they have to think in moderation. It does not mean that you have to stop eating fish. Just do not eat too much of it. The FDA recommends that pregnant women and children should eat no more than 12 ounces of low-mercury fish. There are some fish that are known for their mercury amounts more than others.

What are some fish that you can and should eat during your pregnancy or when you are trying to get pregnant? Mahi-mahi, snapper, blue crab, snow crab, cod, scallops, catfish, flounder, lobster, crawfish, salmon, shrimp, clams, tilapia, sardines and anchovies are all safer choices during your pregnancy.

There have been studies that show that eating fish during your pregnancy can be a good thing if you eat the safer fishes mentioned above. After all, fish food is brain food. Fish nutrients have been known to assist with brain development in children and fetuses. You just need to make sure that the food you eat – especially the fish you eat – is an appropriate choice. You do not want any empty calories since every bite is going towards your child's development. Fish can provide some of the best sources for different calories that you will need, including protein and B12.

Studies have shown that children whose parents ate fish several times a week had higher scores on mental and social tests. The thought is that the higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and these long chain fatty acids are great for neurological development throughout the pregnancy and early childhood.

Do not forget that there are also other nutrients which are essential for your pregnancy and child's development.