Pregnancy nutrition can be very confusing and you always want what is best for your baby, so you probably always put some fruits in your cereals and consume a lot of vegetables. In addition, you may eat protein and dairy food, and probably you have a few healthy snacks in between.
But, can pregnant mothers eat fish during pregnancy, with the latest concerns about the high fish mercury level in some fish and the received mixed results from the research that mercury might affect a baby’s brain and the nervous system?
Well, of all the food dilemmas you might have while pregnant, fish may be the most challenging one. On one side, this food contains nutrients that may be essential for the development of the fetus, while on the other, it may not be safe as it contains damaging polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and mercury.
So, let’s see which fish is beneficial and which should be avoided during pregnancy so you can maximize the many benefits of the fish for you and your baby.
Why Fish is Healthy for the Baby And Pregnant Mothers? Omega 3 – DHA fatty acids
Fish is rich in nutrients and vitamins and in healthy oil called Omega 3 – DHA. When you include it in your diet, it is a very good way to get all the needed protein and healthy fats that are very healthy for the brain and eyes of your baby. (1)
During the last trimester, the nervous system and the baby’s brain are rapidly developed, and this requires about 65 mg/day of DHA. Some studies have shown that it can be beneficial for a baby’s early development.
This high demand for Omega 3 fatty acids continues to the age of 2.
At the same time, Omega 3 fatty acids nourish the brain of the expectant mothers and prevent depression.
It can also lower the risk of premature
affection
Immunic
Mercury
