Is canned tuna safe for a pregnant woman?

Question

If it is safe, how often do you get to eat it especially if you are a natural tuna lover and don't mind eating it once a week?

Answer 1

it is safe in but not in excessive quanities. 3 times a week won't hurt, if u are eating other fisheslike mackral and salmon count that towards the 3 times a week

Answer 2

Higher-Than-Average Levels

Canned tuna and most other fish and seafood contain some amount of toxic mercury that has worked its way through the food chain because of industrial pollution. In adequate doses the metal can damage the developing nervous system in fetuses and children.

The FDA specifically warns against the consumption of shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tile fish -- which have high levels of mercury -- by women who are nursing, or women who are pregnant or of childbearing age; the FDA warning also applies to young children.

In 2004, the FDA urged women and young children to eat no more than 12 ounces of a variety of fish and shellfish with lower levels of mercury (including canned light tuna) or 6 ounces of white tuna (albacore) per week to minimize mercury risks. Canned light tuna on average contains lower mercury levels, the agency said.

But the Consumer Reports analysis of the FDA’s data shows that 6% of cans of light tuna contained at least as much mercury as white tuna, also known as albacore. It wasn’t enough to skew the average beyond white tuna, but enough to warrant concern for pregnant women, Rangan says.

“We’re not telling you not to eat tuna. But for pregnant women in particular where you are talking about potential fetal exposure -- and it’s an avoidable risk -- we’re saying go ahead and take some extra measures to reduce your Hg [mercury] exposure at all costs,” she tells WebMD.

Answer 3

Canned tuna is totally safe. It's the mercury levels in "real" tuna that are a concern, and that there are limits on for pregnant women. So, enjoy your tuna sammies and casseroles. I'm having tuna on buns for breakfast soon!

Answer 4

6 oz a week of light tuna was reccomended to me by my midwife. Tuna steak and albacore tuna have higher concentrate of mercury.
Salmon has a lower mercury content.

Answer 5

It is recommended only to consume it in small quantities due to the mercury content and the negative effects mercury can have on the fetus. I believe it is around 12 oz per week. However, consult your OB for further guidance.

Answer 6

No more than once per week. Especially if you eat albacore. More thsan once a week can be harmful the baby. Good luck.












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