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Can breastfeeding moms eat sushi?

Can Breastfeeding Moms Eat Sushi?
For many new mothers, the postpartum period is a time of dietary liberation after months of restrictions during pregnancy. One of the most frequently asked questions among breastfeeding moms is whether they can indulge in sushi. The good news is that, generally speaking, sushi can be safely consumed while breastfeeding, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Safety Considerations
While breastfeeding, mothers are encouraged to be mindful of their diet, particularly regarding the types of fish they consume. High-mercury fish, such as shark, swordfish, and king mackerel, should be avoided as they can potentially affect the baby’s development through breast milk. Instead, opting for sushi made with lower-mercury fish, like salmon or shrimp, is a healthier choice.
Another significant concern is the risk of foodborne illnesses, particularly listeriosis, which can be caused by bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes found in raw fish. However, it’s important to note that listeria cannot be transmitted through breast milk, meaning that while a mother may be at risk of infection, her breastfeeding baby is not directly at risk from consuming her milk. This means that as long as the sushi is sourced from a reputable establishment that adheres to food safety standards, the risk is minimized.
Health Benefits
Incorporating sushi into a breastfeeding diet can also offer health benefits. Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for both the mother’s health and the baby’s brain development. Therefore, enjoying sushi made with cooked fish or safe raw options can be a nutritious addition to a breastfeeding mother’s diet.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy sushi, provided they are cautious about the types of fish they choose and ensure that the sushi is prepared safely. Avoiding high-mercury fish and opting for reputable sushi sources can allow mothers to indulge in this culinary delight without compromising their health or that of their baby. As always, if there are any concerns or specific dietary restrictions, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable.

What foods should I avoid while breastfeeding a baby gassy?

If you notice that each time you eat something your baby becomes fussy, try avoiding the food for a while and see what happens. Many mothers have reported foods such as kale, spinach, beans, onions, garlic, peppers or spicy foods cause infant gas, while many babies tolerate these foods just fine.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

How long after birth can I eat sushi again?

“You can order some rolls immediately after delivery if you’ve been wanting to eat raw fish,” says Ross. Consuming raw fish is a-okay while you’re breastfeeding, but nursing moms should be careful to avoid eating fish that’s high in mercury, adds Franke.

What foods spoil breast milk?

Here are 5 foods to limit or avoid while breastfeeding, as well as tips for how to tell if your diet is affecting your baby.

  • Fish high in mercury.
  • Some herbal supplements.
  • Alcohol.
  • Caffeine.
  • Highly processed foods.
  • Other considerations.
  • How to tell if your diet is affecting your baby.

What fish to avoid while breastfeeding?

You’ll want to avoid fish that are high in mercury, such as king mackerel, shark, swordfish, orange roughy, tilefish, and marlin. When you do eat fish, the safest choices are salmon, tilapia, cod, catfish, flounder, herring, and pollock.

Can breastfeeding mom eat raw?

During pregnancy, you may have been told to avoid raw fish, unpasteurized cheese, pink meat, and alcohol. While breastfeeding, you can include these foods in your diet.

What foods should be avoided while breastfeeding?

What not to eat and drink when breastfeeding

  • 1 mug of filter coffee = 140mg.
  • 1 mug of instant coffee = 100mg.
  • 1 mug of tea = 75mg.
  • 1 (250ml) can of energy drink = 80mg (larger cans may contain up to 160mg caffeine)
  • 1 (354mls) cola drink = 40mg.
  • 1 (50g) plain chocolate bar = up to 50mg.

What kind of sushi can you eat while breastfeeding?

4. Consider cooked sushi rolls: Choosing cooked sushi rolls, like California rolls or tempura rolls, reduces the risk of exposure to bacteria and parasites that may be present in raw fish. Cooked fish is considered safe to eat while breastfeeding.

What food cuts breast milk?

Here are 5 foods to limit or avoid while breastfeeding, as well as tips for how to tell if your diet is affecting your baby.

  • Fish high in mercury.
  • Some herbal supplements.
  • Alcohol.
  • Caffeine.
  • Highly processed foods.

At what point in pregnancy should you stop eating sushi?

When should you stop eating off-limits sushi? Short answer: Right away! In fact, even if you’re in the process of trying to get pregnant, it’s a good idea to stop eating raw fish. The no-undercooked-or-raw-fish-sushi rule applies to all three trimesters.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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