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What kind of sushi can you eat while breastfeeding?

Sushi and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
For many new mothers, the postpartum period brings a long-awaited return to favorite foods, including sushi. However, the question remains: is it safe to indulge in sushi while breastfeeding? The answer is nuanced, balancing enjoyment with health considerations.
Safety First: Choosing the Right Sushi
Breastfeeding mothers can generally enjoy sushi, but caution is advised. The primary concern revolves around the type of fish used in sushi. Low-mercury fish are considered safe and can even provide health benefits for both mother and baby. Fish such as salmon, shrimp, and tilapia are good options, as they are lower in mercury compared to larger fish like tuna or swordfish, which should be avoided due to their higher mercury content.
It is crucial to source sushi from reputable restaurants that adhere to strict food safety and hygiene regulations. This ensures that the fish is fresh and properly handled, minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses. If the origin of the fish is unclear, it’s wise to inquire about it before making a choice.
Health Benefits of Sushi
Eating sushi can offer several health benefits for breastfeeding mothers. Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for both maternal health and the development of the baby’s brain. These nutrients can enhance the quality of breast milk, providing vital components for the infant’s growth.
Raw vs. Cooked Sushi
While many breastfeeding mothers may be tempted to enjoy raw sushi, it’s advisable to err on the side of caution. Although pathogens from raw fish do not pass through breast milk, the risk of foodborne illness remains a concern. Therefore, opting for cooked sushi or rolls that include vegetables can be a safer choice during the breastfeeding phase.
Conclusion: Enjoying Sushi Responsibly
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can enjoy sushi, provided they choose low-mercury fish and ensure it comes from a reliable source. By being mindful of the types of sushi consumed and prioritizing food safety, new mothers can savor their favorite dishes while supporting their health and that of their baby. So, if you’ve been craving sushi since your pregnancy, now is the time to indulge—just do so wisely!

What foods make breastfed babies gassy?

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 kind of sushi is ok for pregnancy?

Pregnant women should avoid sushi made with raw fish due to the risk of foodborne illness. Cooked, low-mercury sushi (like eel or shrimp), vegetarian sushi (like rolls made with avocado or cucumber), and California rolls are okay.

Can breastfeeding mom eat raw?

During pregnancy, you may have been told to avoid raw fish, unpasteurized cheese, pink meat, and alcohol. While breastfeeding, you can include these foods in your diet.

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 foods lower breast milk supply?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

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

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.

Can nursing mothers eat sushi?

Spicy foods, beans, broccoli, garlic, sushi and other fish are all fine to eat while breastfeeding. Despite common belief, eating these foods will not cause your baby to be gassy or fussy. There are no specific foods all nursing parents need to avoid.

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!

How long after birth can I eat sushi again?

“You can order some rolls immediately after delivery if you’ve been wanting to eat raw fish,” says Ross. Consuming raw fish is a-okay while you’re breastfeeding, but nursing moms should be careful to avoid eating fish that’s high in mercury, adds Franke.

What foods should be avoided while breastfeeding?

What not to eat and drink when breastfeeding

  • 1 mug of filter coffee = 140mg.
  • 1 mug of instant coffee = 100mg.
  • 1 mug of tea = 75mg.
  • 1 (250ml) can of energy drink = 80mg (larger cans may contain up to 160mg caffeine)
  • 1 (354mls) cola drink = 40mg.
  • 1 (50g) plain chocolate bar = up to 50mg.
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.

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