Fish

[timmy06]

I am currently 7 weeks, my co-workers warned me not to eat fish because of the mercury which can harm the baby.  Is this true to all kinds of fish or are there any certain type of fish that I can't eat?

[young_single_mother22]

I have also reciently heard that any type of fish that is not fresh as an amount of mercury in it. But then I heard that even freash fish also has a certain amount also.

That is so messed up, that is what we eat. After all this stuff they are now putting in food to keep it fresh were all going to be in the hospital for side effects.

I would consult your doctor about that concern, but I wouldn't take the chance of hurting my baby just to eat fish, it is only 9 months then enjoy all the fish that you want!

[cugirl]

I have heard this to and I asked a coworker who had 4 daughters around their 20's-30's who all have young children.  She said they never were told that.  But who knows things change all the time.  I just saw a special on TV about more murcury in certain brands of tuna.  You may want to ask the Dr. or google the subject.  Best of luck!!

[dandeelyon]

Certain fish contain high levels of mercury (ie, Swordfish, Shark).  However there are other fish that are ok (ie Salmon, Tilapia).

I'm attaching a link to the EPA website that gives some good information.  I do have a link at home that gives the recommended amount of fish for women and children.  I'll post it later tonight.

http://www.epa.gov/ost/fishadvice/advice.html

[newlywed05]

I just asked my doc yesterday at my appt about fish, well, all seafood really. I have been craving it, but haven't eaten anything because of fear of the mercury and other harmful things I heard were in there. She said I could eat it 1 to 2 times a week. I asked if there were any restrictions on what qualified as able for me to eat she said absolutely not. 1 to 2 times is more than I usually eat it not preggo! She did however say stay away from anything raw. So I can't wait, for my birthday dinner I am getting crab legs and lobster!!!! I just might cry I am so happy :o)

[lilfiery]

If you have the pregnancy books "what to expect when you are expecting" I believe there is a good section on what fish are ok to eat in moderation (ie 1-2 x week).  Some fish you should avoid. I was told to avoid albacore tuna, but Light Tuna was ok (less mercury).  Some fish are higher risks for mercury--i'm sorry I don't have that book in front of me at the moment (i'm on bedrest and it is upstairs).  I eat light tuna about once a week, and cod about once a week.

[AnnieBrooke]

The things to watch out for are mercury, PCBs, and raw fish.  Do look at the EPA website for specifics.  The mercury is in some sea fish, the PCBs are in some lake-caught fish, and your goal in avoiding raw fish is to keep away from toxins and bacteria.  The list can seem pretty complex at first, but I have had no trouble once I wrote it down and got used to the idea.

[jackiemoo]

Albacore tuna, any raw fish like sushi, and deep ocean fishes like sword fish or shark should not be consumed whill pregnant. white fish (especially freshwater), tuna, and salmon are great for you in moderation. You can eat them up to three times a week. They do have mercury, but as long as you don't eat to much than you should be ok. Also shelfish is pretty safe!

I hope this helps!

[timmy06]

Thank you guys, this helps a lot...