Is Catfish Good for You in Pregnancy? What Are The Benefits?
It’s recommended that pregnant women try to increase their fish intake during pregnancy as its a nutritious, lean source of protein and many vitamins and minerals (source: APA).
Catfish is lean and low in calories, coming in at around 150 calories per fillet (one serving). The same average serving contains 26g of protein, which is up to 25% of the recommended intake during pregnancy (source: APA).
Catfish is also a good source of many minerals and vitamins such as Thiamin, Vitamin B12, Niacin, Phosphorus, Potassium and Selenium. Catfish is also an excellent source of some long-chain fatty acids, and vitamin D (source: Nutrition Data).
Of course, how you prepare catfish affects its nutritional value.
Pregnancy and fish: What’s safe to eat?
You’re not alone if you’re uncertain about whether eating seafood is safe while pregnant. Understand the guidelines for pregnancy and fish.
Nutrition during pregnancy can be confusing, especially when it comes to recommended seafood intake. Heres help understanding the facts.
Additionally, because farm-raised fish may contain contaminants from pesticides, it is important to be cautious when consuming it. Each state has resources that can give you the most recent details on whether or not the fish that are readily available there are safe to eat at any given time.
Fish that are high in mercury are what you’re trying to avoid, according to Dr. Buskevicius. “Fortunately, you don’t eat fish that is high in mercury very frequently.” For example, shark is high in mercury. There aren’t many people in Nebraska eating shark very often. ”.
It is safe to eat up to 12 ounces of seafood per week (or up to six ounces of canned tuna per week). The recommended temperature for cooking seafood to prevent food poisoning is 145 degrees. Fish should appear opaque and be flaky after cooking.
Tilapia, cod, catfish, pollock, sardines, salmon, and light tuna canned in cans are all healthy fish. It’s also safe to eat other types of seafood like shrimp, crab, and scallops.
To sum up, there are many seafood choices that are regarded as safe for pregnant women (and some to avoid). Therefore, you can feel comfortable eating a tuna fish sandwich for lunch or a piece of salmon for dinner knowing that your choices are safe and, as an added benefit, you are giving your unborn child essential nutrients. And as with most dietary decisions in life (especially pregnancy), continue to be mindful of your food choices, serving sizes, and safe cooking techniques.