Eating certain types of shellfish can harm a developing fetus or even cause a miscarriage, so pregnant women should be careful when eating seafood at home or in restaurants. However, don't forgo seafood altogether; shellfish and other seafood provide nutrients you and your baby need.
Mercury
Almost all fish and shellfish contain trace amounts of mercury because they absorb mercury from the water. However, some types have higher levels of mercury, which can damage your unborn baby's developing nervous system. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, recommends avoiding shark, king mackerel, swordfish and tilefish. You should also stop eating these fish if you're trying to conceive, because mercury builds up in your body over time. Shrimp, clams, crabs and canned tuna usually have low levels of mercury. Check your local or state advisories about mercury levels in locally caught fish and shellfish.
Bacteria and Viruses
Fish and shellfish may also contain bacteria, viruses or parasites, especially raw seafood. Protect yourself and your unborn baby by always cooking fish and shellfish to at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Colorado State University Extension recommends boiling live oysters for three to five minutes after their shells open to kill all microorganisms. In addition, reheat smoked seafood to 165 degrees Fahrenheit before consumption, because smoked seafood may contain Listeria monocytogenes and other harmful bacteria.
Recommendations
The FDA recommends that pregnant women and women trying to conceive consume 12 oz. or less of fish and shellfish per week to avoid getting too much mercury. Mercury takes time to build up, so if you eat a lot of seafood one week, just cut back the next week. In addition, make sure all the seafood you consume is adequately cooked.
Benefits
Fish and shellfish contain high levels of docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid your unborn baby needs for brain development. Getting enough DHA also reduces the risk of pre-term labor and postpartum depression, according to the Colorado State University Extension. However, most women don't get enough DHA. Fish and shellfish also contain high levels of protein.
Member Comments