What fish to avoid when breastfeeding?

Understanding Fish Consumption While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often seek to maintain a healthy diet that supports both their well-being and that of their infants. Fish can be a nutritious component of this diet, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain development. However, not all fish are created equal, particularly when it comes to mercury content, which can pose risks to both mothers and their nursing babies.
High-Mercury Fish to Avoid
Certain types of fish are known to contain elevated levels of mercury, a toxic metal that can adversely affect neurological development in infants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) specifically advises breastfeeding mothers to avoid the following high-mercury fish:
– Shark
– Swordfish
– Tilefish
– Bigeye tuna
– King mackerel
These fish are notorious for their high mercury levels, which can accumulate in the body and potentially transfer to breast milk, posing risks to the developing nervous systems of infants.
The Importance of Low-Mercury Fish
While the risks associated with high-mercury fish are significant, it is essential to note that many fish are safe and beneficial to consume during breastfeeding. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend that breastfeeding mothers consume a variety of low-mercury fish. These include options like salmon, sardines, and trout, which not only provide essential nutrients but also contribute to the overall health of both mother and child.
The recommended intake is about 225-240 grams (approximately 8-12 ounces) of low-mercury fish per week. This amount allows mothers to reap the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, which are linked to improved cognitive development in infants.
Conclusion
In summary, while fish can be a healthy addition to a breastfeeding mother’s diet, it is crucial to be mindful of the types of fish consumed. Avoiding high-mercury varieties like shark and swordfish while opting for safer, low-mercury options can help ensure that both mother and baby receive the nutritional benefits of fish without the associated risks of mercury exposure. By making informed choices, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy the health benefits of fish while safeguarding their child’s development.

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 has high mercury?

Fish that contain high levels of mercury include shark, ray, swordfish, barramundi, gemfish, orange roughy, ling and southern bluefin tuna.

Does fish cause gas in breastfed babies?

Other potentially allergenic foods – including eggs, wheat, peanuts, soy, fish, and tree nuts – might cause gas and other symptoms. However, the few studies that have been done have come to conflicting conclusions. There’s no guarantee that eliminating these foods from your diet will help with your baby’s gas.

What fish should you avoid while breastfeeding?

Due to concerns over mercury poisoning in infants, women who are breastfeeding should avoid fish that are high in mercury, such as shark, swordfish, and bigeye tuna.

Which fish is good for feeding a mother?

DocasaHexanenoic Acid (DHA) is an important omega 3 fatty acid needed by babies for brain development. You can boost the DHA in your milk by eating fish 2-3 times per week. The best sources of DHA are: salmon, bluefish, bass, trout, flounder and tuna.

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 fish is high in mercury when breastfeeding?

High-mercury fish is unsafe for you to eat during pregnancy and while you’re breastfeeding.

What foods lower breast milk supply?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

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

Is salmon bad for breastfeeding?

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.