What fish should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Understanding Fish Consumption While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face a myriad of dietary choices, and one of the most debated topics is the consumption of fish. While fish can be a nutritious source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, certain types pose risks due to their mercury content. Understanding which fish to avoid is crucial for the health of both mother and baby.
The Mercury Concern
Mercury is a toxic element that can accumulate in fish, particularly larger species that are higher up in the food chain. When consumed, mercury can transfer to breast milk, potentially affecting the developing nervous system of infants. The FDA and EPA have issued guidelines specifically addressing this concern, advising breastfeeding mothers to limit their intake of high-mercury fish.
Fish to Avoid
Certain fish are known for their high mercury levels and should be avoided during breastfeeding. These include:
– Shark
– Swordfish
– King mackerel
– Tilefish
These species are notorious for their elevated mercury concentrations, making them unsafe for breastfeeding mothers. The FDA emphasizes that while fish is generally beneficial, the risks associated with high-mercury varieties outweigh the benefits.
Safer Alternatives
Fortunately, not all fish are created equal. Many types of fish are low in mercury and can be safely consumed while breastfeeding. Options such as salmon, sardines, and trout are not only lower in mercury but also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for both maternal health and infant development. The FDA recommends that breastfeeding mothers can safely consume up to 12 ounces (about two average meals) of low-mercury fish per week.
Local Fish Considerations
For those who enjoy locally caught fish, it’s important to be cautious. The FDA advises limiting consumption of locally caught fish to no more than once a week and recommends checking local advisories regarding fish safety. This is particularly relevant in areas where water pollution may lead to higher mercury levels in local fish populations.
Conclusion
In summary, while fish can be a healthy addition to a breastfeeding mother’s diet, it is essential to avoid high-mercury varieties to protect the health of the infant. Opting for low-mercury fish can provide the nutritional benefits without the associated risks. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider can help tailor dietary choices to individual health needs and circumstances.

Which seafood increase breast milk?

Salmon and sardines
Salmon is great for breastfeeding moms because it contains large amounts of DHA, a type of fat important for the development of a baby’s nervous system. Wild-caught, farm-raised or canned salmon is good for you. Both salmon and sardines can increase breast milk production.

What should a breastfeeding mother avoid eating?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless. If you do drink caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day.

Which fish has the most mercury?

Some fish contain more mercury than others

• shark.
• ray.
• swordfish.
• barramundi.
• gemfish.
• orange roughy.
• ling.
• southern bluefin tuna.

Why can’t I eat tuna 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.

What happens if I eat high mercury fish while breastfeeding?

Key findings. Mercury can pass from a mother to her baby through the placenta during pregnancy and, in smaller amounts, through breast milk after birth. Mercury exposure can affect the infant’s brain and nervous system development during pregnancy and after birth.

Which fish is best for breastfeeding?

The USDA and FDA recommend that pregnant and breastfeeding moms stay away from shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish — those are the ones known to have high mercury levels. Instead, choose low-mercury fish, such as salmon, pollock, catfish, shrimp and canned light tuna.

What foods lower breast milk supply?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

• Alcohol.
• Sage, Parsley, and Peppermint.
• Chasteberry.
• Pseudoephedrine, Methylergonovine, and Bromocriptine.

What fish can you not eat while breastfeeding?

Fish to be avoided
King Mackerel, Marlin, Orange Roughy, Shark, Swordfish, Gulf of Mexico Tilefish, and Bigeye Tuna. Locally caught fish should be eaten no more than once a week and consumers are advised to check with the local fisheries for further information.

What fish should not be given to babies?

For babies, it’s best to avoid high mercury fish, such as ( 22 ): bigeye and bluefin tuna. mackerel. marlin.

What is the safest fish for babies to eat?

Salmon, trout and herring are considered low in mercury and high in brain-boosting DHA. Other types of seafood considered “best choices” include shrimp, cod, catfish, crab, scallops, pollock, tilapia, whitefish, trout, perch, flounder, sole, sardine, anchovy, crawfish, clams, oyster, and lobster.