Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Is ahi tuna safe while breastfeeding?

Is ahi tuna safe while breastfeeding?

Is Ahi Tuna Safe While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to dietary choices during breastfeeding, ahi tuna presents a complex issue. While fish is generally recognized for its health benefits, particularly due to its omega-3 fatty acids, ahi tuna is often scrutinized due to its mercury content.
Mercury Concerns
Ahi tuna, also known as yellowfin tuna, is known to have higher levels of mercury compared to other fish. Mercury is a neurotoxin that can adversely affect both the mother and the developing baby. The FDA and EPA recommend that breastfeeding mothers limit their intake of fish high in mercury to reduce potential risks to their infants. This is particularly important as mercury can accumulate in the body and may be passed through breast milk.
Health Benefits vs. Risks
On one hand, fish like ahi tuna is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain development in infants. However, the risks associated with mercury exposure often outweigh these benefits. Many health professionals advise breastfeeding mothers to choose fish that are lower in mercury, such as salmon or sardines, while limiting or avoiding high-mercury options like ahi tuna.
Accidental Consumption
There are anecdotal accounts from breastfeeding mothers who have accidentally consumed ahi tuna and later expressed concern about its safety. Such experiences highlight the importance of being informed about dietary restrictions during breastfeeding. While one-time consumption may not lead to immediate adverse effects, consistent intake of high-mercury fish can pose long-term risks.
Recommendations
For breastfeeding mothers, it is advisable to consult healthcare providers regarding dietary choices. The general consensus is to limit consumption of ahi tuna and other high-mercury fish to ensure the safety and health of both mother and child. If a mother does consume ahi tuna, it is recommended to monitor her baby’s reactions and consult a pediatrician if there are any concerns.
In conclusion, while ahi tuna can be a delicious and nutritious option, its high mercury content makes it a risky choice for breastfeeding mothers. Opting for safer fish alternatives can help ensure both maternal health and the well-being of the infant.

Is it okay to eat tuna when breastfeeding?

It’s good to include 2 portions of fish per week, but when you are breastfeeding: limit swordfish, marlin or shark to 1 portion a week (because of the high levels of mercury in them) do not eat more than 2 portions of oily fish a week (like fresh tuna, salmon, trout, mackerel, herring, sardines and pilchards)

Is it safe to eat seared ahi tuna?

Ahi tuna, also known as yellow-fin, is moist, supple and best served when lightly seared on the outside, leaving the inside tender and downright raw in the middle. Because the fish should be raw, not rare, you must start with the very best, sushi-grade ahi.

How much ahi tuna is safe to eat?

The FDA lists yellowfin tuna and albacore tuna as “good choices” while bigeye tuna is included in the fish-to-avoid category because of its high mercury levels. Most other adults can have an 8 oz serving or more of ahi tuna fish every week as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Should I pump and dump after sushi?

Once the baby is born, women no longer have to avoid sushi as it is safe to eat while breastfeeding. Eating fish, whether raw or cooked, can provide several benefits to both a breastfeeding woman and the breastfed baby. In particular, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D are essential for developing infants.

Is ahi tuna considered raw?

Start with the best and the fish does the rest. Ahi tuna, also known as yellow-fin, is moist, supple and best served when lightly seared on the outside, leaving the inside tender and downright raw in the middle. Because the fish should be raw, not rare, you must start with the very best, sushi-grade ahi.

Is ahi tuna safe during pregnancy?

Bigeye tuna (often known as ahi) falls on the “avoid” list, while albacore and yellowfin are listed as “good choices,” and canned light tuna, which includes skipjack, is listed as a “best choice.”

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.

Is all ahi tuna high in mercury?

Ahi (or yellowfin) tuna can vary greatly in mercury content based on where it is sourced. The FDA lists the average as 0.35 ug/g or 10 ug/oz for cooked ahi tuna.

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 I eat raw ahi tuna while breastfeeding?

Uh, it’s totally fine. Done it a bunch — it’s not like not eating tuna while pregnant (that I avoided). My doctor AND lactation specialists all said it’s totally fine in moderation!

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.

Leave a Comment