STOP! Eating Canned Tuna During Pregnancy

Canned Fish May Not Be Safe During Pregnancy
Canned tuna contains uncertain but probably high levels of mercury contamination. Mercury is extremely dangerous for developing babies and fetuses. Two years ago the federal government and FDA advised pregnant women to simply limit their intake of fish and canned tuna. These recommendations have changed however, as new research points to increasingly high levels of toxic mercury in canned fish.

Higher Mercury Levels In Canned Tuna
The recent reports revealed by the FDA show that canned tuna contains more mercury than previously thought. Many seafood items contain toxic levels of mercury. This is due largely to pollution allowing heavy metals to enter streams, lakes and ultimately the ocean.High levels of toxins including mercury in fish may lead to nervous system problems or brain damage in young children and in developing fetuses. So if you plan to feed your toddler tuna, think again.New recommendations suggest the high levels of mercury in certain fish including tuna, mackerel, shark, swordfish or tile fish may also be dangerous for young children, whose brains are still developing.

As of 2004 the FDA recommended young children and pregnant women eat only 12 ounces of fish and shellfish each week containing low levels of mercury. Now that recommendation is decreased.

If you do decide to eat tuna, consider light tuna. This generally contains lower levels of mercury than albacore tuna. However, some studies show that light tuna still contains dangerously high levels of mercury. While the FDA isn’t suggesting it necessary to ban tuna altogether, they are recommending pregnant women take care, especially because their fetuses are at such a vulnerable developmental stage during pregnancy.

How Do You Know If Your Fish Is Safe?
Interestingly most women don’t crave fish during pregnancy. If you do decide to have some fish, try for some wild salmon or other types of fish that don’t contain high levels of mercury. Avoid canned tuna if you can, or limit your intake to 3 ounces a week. Some studies suggest you may eat up to 3 ounces every day, but most women agree it is better they are safe then sorry when it comes to their health and that of their baby. Is wild fish safer than farm raised fish? The jury is still out on this controversial issue. It is a shame too, because many fishes including fatty fishes like tuna contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Fortunately you can get essential fatty acids from other sources including flax seeds.

What do you do if you need a good substitute for canned fish for tuna salad? Why not try some chicken salad instead? The good news is a lot of women are simply turned off from the smell of fish during pregnancy. I normally love fish, however during each of my pregnancies I couldn’t stand the site or smell of any kind of fish, especially shellfish (which is good, since shellfish tends to contain high levels of mercury).

Don’t worry, there are plenty of food items you can indulge in when pregnant!