SUSHI DURING PREGNANCY

Japanese cuisine is extremely popular in many areas of the world. Whether you prefer sushi, sashimi, or teppanyaki, these popular dishes bring a lot of joy to the millions of people who regularly consume them. However, many people wonder about the safety of these dishes, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The information below has been designed to help pregnant or breastfeeding women learn whether or not these popular dishes are safe for their consumption.

Most medical professionals recommend that pregnant women limit the amount of fish they consume. This is because specific types of fish can contain high levels of mercury and other heavy metals. It is possible for mercury-containing foods to negatively impact the health and development of a growing fetus. Fish such as tuna and mackerel should be consumed on a limited basis by women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.

Since sushi and sashimi often contain uncooked fish, it is recommended that they be completely avoided during pregnancy for the safety of the developing baby. If you are currently pregnant or plan to become pregnant soon, limit your consumption of fatty fish to one or two servings a week. Also, avoid the consumption of sushi and sashimi until after your baby is born.

Current evidence indicates that raw fish such as the types used to create sushi and sashimi can sometimes contain tiny parasitic worms. When these dishes are consumed, these parasitic worms can make it into your digestive tract. A person experiencing issues with parasites could feel some minor discomfort in their digestive tract. It is important to note that this is a relatively rare phenomenon. Rest assured that the majority of people consuming these products will not have any issues with parasites.

We’ve now learned that it is not considered safe to consume sushi while pregnant. Does the same apply to the breastfeeding period? Sushi is generally recognized as safe during the period of breastfeeding. If any contaminants are present in the uncooked fish, they will not be passed along to your baby during breastfeeding. However, these contaminants could make you feel sick if the food is not handled correctly. Therefore, it’s best to be sure you purchase your sushi or sashimi from a reputable source. Foodborne illness can create severe symptoms that might make it difficult to care for your baby.
Japanese cuisine is a favorite in many parts of the world. Follow the recommended safety advice listed here to enjoy these foods at different stages of your life. If you have any questions about the safety of including these popular foods in your diet, please contact your physician before consuming them.