Can I eat canned tuna while breastfeeding?

Can I Eat Canned Tuna While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether it’s safe to consume canned tuna while breastfeeding is a common concern among new mothers. The good news is that, according to health guidelines, it is generally safe to eat canned tuna in moderation during this period. However, there are important considerations regarding the type of tuna and the quantity consumed.
Health Guidelines on Tuna Consumption
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that breastfeeding mothers limit their intake of canned tuna to 6 ounces (approximately 170 grams) per week. This guideline is primarily due to concerns about mercury levels found in certain types of fish, including tuna. Mercury can accumulate in the body and potentially affect the developing nervous system of infants.
Types of Tuna
When it comes to canned tuna, there are typically two main varieties: light tuna and white (albacore) tuna. Light tuna generally contains lower levels of mercury compared to albacore. Therefore, if you’re considering incorporating canned tuna into your diet while breastfeeding, opting for light tuna may be a safer choice. The FDA’s recommendations suggest that breastfeeding mothers can consume light tuna more frequently than albacore tuna, which should be limited to about 4 ounces per week due to its higher mercury content.
Nutritional Benefits
Despite the concerns regarding mercury, tuna is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for both the mother and the baby’s brain development. These essential fats are crucial during the breastfeeding period, as they contribute to the overall health and cognitive development of infants. Thus, when consumed in moderation, canned tuna can be a nutritious addition to a breastfeeding mother’s diet.
Common Concerns
Many mothers express anxiety about eating tuna due to conflicting information found online. Some anecdotal reports suggest avoiding tuna altogether, often fueled by fears of mercury exposure. However, health experts emphasize that moderation is key. The FDA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have provided guidance to help breastfeeding mothers make informed choices about fish consumption, balancing the benefits of omega-3s with the risks associated with mercury.
Conclusion
In summary, canned tuna can be safely consumed while breastfeeding, provided that mothers adhere to the recommended limits. By choosing light tuna and keeping within the advised weekly intake, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy the nutritional benefits of tuna without significantly increasing their mercury exposure. As always, if there are any specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable.

Are there foods to avoid while breastfeeding?

Generally, women do not need to limit or avoid specific foods while breastfeeding. Mothers should be encouraged to eat a healthy and diverse diet. However, certain types of seafood should be consumed in a limited amount. Some mothers may wish to restrict caffeine while breastfeeding.

Is all canned tuna high in mercury?

Skipjack and canned light tuna, which are relatively low in mercury, can be eaten as part of a healthy diet. However, albacore, yellowfin and bigeye tuna are high in mercury and should be limited or avoided.

Is it safe to eat canned tuna while pregnant?

In general, tuna consumed during pregnancy is safe for your fetus. “As long as the guidelines are followed, there is no concern about the baby’s exposure to the tuna fish in their parent’s diet,” says Stephanie Hack, MD, OB-GYN and founder of Lady Parts Doctor.

What foods can’t you eat when breastfeeding?

Foods to stay away from when breastfeeding include:

• Coffee and tea. Some of the caffeine in the coffee and tea you drink will end up in your breast milk and may make it harder for your baby to sleep.
• Cabbage, broccoli, and other “gassy” foods.
• Fish.
• Chocolate.
• Garlic.
• Peppermint, sage, and parsley.

Is canned tuna safe while breastfeeding?

Avoid: High-Mercury Fish
One food that you absolutely want to steer clear of while breastfeeding is fish high in mercury like tuna, swordfish and mackerel. Even in small amounts, mercury toxins can pass through breast milk to your baby and affect their brain and nervous system.

How much canned tuna is safe?

Like most foods, it’s okay to eat tuna in moderation. “According to the FDA, the average adult can safely eat about six to nine ounces of tuna per week,” says Dr. O’Neill. “That typically works out to one to two cans, depending on the size.”

Can you eat canned tuna while breastfeeding reddit?

It’s fine to nurse you baby after having fish that has mercury in it – the recommendations around this are different vs pregnancy. While very small amounts can pass through breastmilk, the studies have shown it is safe. Hope that helps! Cheers!

What fish can I not eat 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.

Does tuna increase breast milk supply?

Salmon, sardines, herring, anchovies, trout, mackerel and tuna are great sources of essential fatty acids and omega- 3 fatty acids. Essential fatty acids (EFA’s) improve mom’s nutrition status so that she can produce the hormones necessary for milk production. EFA’s are a key ingredient in breast milk.

What foods decrease milk supply?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:

• Carbonated beverages.
• Caffeine – coffee, black tea, green tea, etc.
• Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)