What fish should you 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. This article delves into which fish should be avoided during breastfeeding to ensure both maternal and infant health.
The Risks of Mercury in Fish
Mercury contamination is a significant concern when it comes to fish consumption for breastfeeding mothers. High levels of mercury can adversely affect a baby’s developing nervous system. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have issued guidelines specifically addressing this issue, recommending that breastfeeding mothers avoid fish known to have high mercury levels.
Fish to Avoid
Certain fish are notorious for their high mercury content and should be avoided during breastfeeding. These include:
– Shark
– Swordfish
– King mackerel
– Tilefish
These species are known to accumulate mercury in their bodies, making them unsafe for consumption during breastfeeding. The FDA advises that mothers should steer clear of these fish to minimize the risk of mercury exposure to their infants.
Safer Alternatives
While some fish are off-limits, many others are safe and beneficial. Fish that are lower in mercury, such as salmon, sardines, and trout, can be consumed safely. These options not only provide essential nutrients but also contribute to the overall health of both mother and baby. The omega-3 fatty acids found in these fish are particularly beneficial for brain development in infants.
Local Fish Considerations
For mothers who enjoy locally caught fish, it’s important to be cautious. The FDA recommends limiting consumption to no more than once a week and advises checking local advisories regarding fish caught in specific waters. This is crucial as local fish may also contain varying levels of mercury depending on the environment.
Conclusion
In summary, while fish can be a healthy addition to a breastfeeding mother’s diet, it is essential to be mindful of the types consumed. Avoiding high-mercury fish like shark and swordfish while opting for safer alternatives can help ensure that both mother and baby receive the nutritional benefits of fish without the associated risks. By making informed choices, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy the health benefits of fish while safeguarding their child’s development.

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.

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.

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.

Which fish will increase breast milk?

Most preferred dry fish for lactating moms are paal suraa, kaaraa and thirikkai karuvaadu.

What fish to avoid when 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.

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.

What foods cause gas in breastfed babies?

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.

What foods decrease breast milk?

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.)

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 fish are high in mercury?

Fish that contain high levels of mercury include shark, ray, swordfish, barramundi, gemfish, orange roughy, ling and southern bluefin tuna. Mercury is a naturally occurring element that is found in air, water and food.