Seafood is generally seen as a type of food that should be avoided during pregnancy, while fruits are at the exact opposite pole. But much like the health-giving fruits to eat during pregnancy, fish also has its pros. Let’s put them both in balance, and find out what food is good for pregnancy!

When we talk about nutrition during pregnancy, there seem to be a lot of do’s and don’ts. The public opinion remains split when it comes to consuming fish during pregnancy, or what fruits to eat during pregnancy and what fruits to avoid during pregnancy. Out of these, the most debated topic among future mothers is that of fish consumption. On the one hand, they are told about the need to eat plenty of fish to ensure the necessary levels of Omega 3 fatty acids, as well as other important nutrients. At the same time, the level of mercury could be dangerous to the child. After digging deep into numerous studies and expert testimonials, we can finally shed some light on what foods to avoid during pregnancy, and what to eat during pregnancy.

 Fish During Pregnancy

It is a well-known fact also confirmed by numerous reliable sources that fish and seafood are a great source of protein, iron, and Omega 3. Because of these, fish during pregnancy can play a major role in the development of the baby, especially the brain. However, regular consumption of fish rich in mercury can also lead to its excessive accumulation in the blood, and this can actually end up affecting the brain and nervous system of the growing child. To solve this problem, the FDA has released clear guidelines for pregnant mothers regarding the mercury levels in fish. It appears that the quantity of mercury from fish consumed weekly should not exceed more than 12 oz. As for fish to avoid during pregnancy, those types with extremely high levels of mercury should be completely eliminated, while fish with high levels should be limited to 6oz per month.

Fruit to Eat During Pregnancy

If you asked what food is good for pregnancy, almost all expert nutritionists and doctors agree that fruits should be right there at the top of the list. They are extremely rich in vitamins and are just as necessary as the best prenatal vitamins. Even if a mother does not have an appetite for fruits while pregnant, it would be better for her to consume them anyhow, as they help with digestion and preserve the elasticity of the skin.

Among the best fruits to eat during pregnancy, we have to mention blueberries, apricots, cherries, grapefruit, mango, melons, kiwi, pears, pineapple, apples, blackberries, strawberries, and oranges. To conclude, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, seeds, cereals, as well as nuts from organic farming is the best source of nutrients.

What Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

To begin with, certain types of food should be kept off at all costs. Among fish to avoid during pregnancy, large predatory species such as shark, swordfish, or king mackerel are the first in line. These are examples of fish that may contain enormous amounts of mercury. Even though they do not pose a real risk for adults, if you are or will be pregnant, you must take special precautions. If you eat fish frequently with high mercury content, this will end up harming the child’s brain and nervous system.

In matters of fruits to avoid during pregnancy, mothers should exclude very few types from their nutrition plan. Pineapples, grapes, watermelons, papayas, and peaches are known for their adverse effects during pregnancy, from simple stomach problems down to inducing early labor.

Conclusion

The bottom line in the old fish vs. fruits during pregnancy dispute is that in both categories, we can name not only extremely useful examples but also potentially harmful ones. There are fruits to avoid during pregnancy, just like some fish to avoid during pregnancy. We hope this short guide has given you a better idea of the do’s or don’ts.

Author’s Bio: Rae was born in Belgrade, Serbia, but moved to the US when she was 11 to her parents. She is currently studying Journalism with two years left before getting her degree. When she’s not helping us to elaborate insightful articles on health and nutrition, she is working on her first novel.