Shrimp During Breastfeeding - Is It Safe To Eat?

Seafood is a great source of protein and omega 3, and it is good for the baby’s brain and body development. But there are only some seafood items on the menu that are safe to eat during pregnancy and breastfeeding, while others are considered unsafe because they contain high levels of methyl-mercury. Shrimp is a popular seafood and is among exotic kinds of seafood too. So, what about shrimp during breastfeeding? Is it safe?

Is Shrimp a Safe Food While Breastfeeding?

Fish and shellfish are an important part of a healthy diet. Seafood contains high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) and these are crucial for the baby’s eye and nervous system development. Fish are rich in protein and vitamin D and low in saturated fat. However, some fish contain high levels of methyl-mercury. Methyl-mercury is a contaminant that is found everywhere – even in water (through industrial waste).

Fish and other sea plants and animals absorb this contaminant through the water they swim in. Almost all fish and shellfish contain some amount of mercury, but the large predator fish absorb the most. As mercury can pass over to the baby through breast milk, excessive amounts of it can pose a risk to the baby. Methyl-mercury is a neurotoxin that can affect your baby’s developing nervous system.

What are the Benefits of Eating Seafood When Breastfeeding?

All fish and shellfish are rich in protein and omega 3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA). They promote heart health and support the immune system.

1. Shrimp

Shrimp is an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids, which are important for the proper development of a baby’s brain and eye. They are also rich in protein and iron.

2. Salmon

Salmon is low in saturated fat and high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and other vital nutrients.

3. Pollock

Amino acids are the building blocks of the body. They support the immune system. Eating Pollock will provide you with sufficient amounts of amino acids.

4. Tuna

Tuna is packed with vital nutrients which promote heart health. They are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, protein and improve the immune system.

[Read : Is It Safe To Eat Sushi While Breastfeeding?]

Seafood That Should be Avoided During Breastfeeding

Do not eat these seafood items as they contain high levels of methyl-mercury:

Shark
King mackerel
Swordfish
Tilefish

All foods that you eat are usually passed on to the baby within 6 hours, but some foods can take just an hour or 24 hours to get to your baby. So it is important to eat wisely and eat safely.

Fish That Are Safe to Eat During Breastfeeding

Some fish are low in mercury and are safe when you are breastfeeding. However, you must limit the intake to 8 to 12 ounces, which roughly translates into approximately two servings per week. These are:

Shrimp
Salmon
Canned light tuna
Tilapia
Catfish
Cod
Pollock

So you can eat shrimp during breastfeeding, but eat only about 12 ounces each week.

[Read: Is It Safe To Consume Fish While Breastfeeding?]

Is it Safe to Eat Shellfish During Breastfeeding?

Allergies tend to run in families. Shellfish are among the most common food allergens. Do not eat it if shellfish allergy or any other food allergy runs in your family. If either of the parents has a history of allergies, avoiding foods that are highly allergic would be wise.

Even if you do not have a food allergy, it’s better to talk to your doctor before including it in your diet while nursing. If after eating shellfish, your baby gets symptoms of allergy like diarrhea, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, then contact your child’s pediatrician immediately. Avoid eating shellfish if your baby shows any signs of allergy.

Precautions When You Eat Seafood During Breastfeeding

While you can eat fish and shellfish for its nutritional benefits, please keep in mind the below points as well:

1. Never Eat Raw Seafood

Raw seafood can contain harmful bacteria and viruses which can cause food poisoning to you. It is unlikely to pass to your baby, but it is better to avoid illness during this time when you have to devote your time to the baby.

2. How to Know if the Fish is Cooked Properly?

Raw fish is translucent, and it will turn opaque during cooking.
You can check with the tip of a knife to cut the interior of the fish. It should be opaque and should be separated into flakes.
Shrimps should always be cooked at temperatures above 74° degrees so that bacteria and worms cannot survive at this temperature.

How To Purchase Shrimp While Breastfeeding?

You should buy shrimp from a reputable and hygienic store. If you are planning to purchase shrimp, the first thing you have to decide is whether you want fresh or frozen shrimp. Fresh ones can only be kept for a few days, while frozen ones have a longer shelf life.

The color of the shrimp gives a good indication of its quality. There should be no rings or any type of spot on the shrimp, as these are signs of substandard or spoiled shrimp (except spotted shrimp). If shrimp smell like ammonia or their shells feel slimy or soft, do not buy them

While you are breastfeeding, do not take Shrimps and other kinds of seafood raw. Shrimps have some harmful bacteria which can pass on to the baby and cause harmful effects. Make sure they are well cooked and remember to eat in moderation.

However, do not completely stop eating seafood, as you may miss out on some vital nutrients. Omega 3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is one of the main building blocks of the brain. Studies have shown that it has positive effects on the baby’s vision and neurological health.

[Read: Best Foods To Increase Breast Milk]

FAQ’s

1. Can Eating Shrimp During Breastfeeding Lead to Food Poisoning?

If you eat raw shrimp, yes. If you consume too much of it, it can lead to iodine poisoning. Ensure you eat only well cooked shrimp in moderate quantities.

2. If I Eat Shrimp While Breastfeeding, Will it Affect My Baby?

Shrimp is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids. This is very good for health. It can benefit your baby too.

3. Can Eating Uncooked Shrimp be Fatal During Breastfeeding?

Yes, it can. Raw shrimp can lead to severe food poisoning. This can affect both you and the baby.

4. Can Eating Shrimp While Breastfeeding Improves My Milk Supply?

There is no research to prove this. However, sardines and salmon can. Combine shrimp with other milk supply boosting foods.

Shrimp During Breastfeeding – Is It Safe To Eat?

In This Article

Is Shrimp a Safe Food While Breastfeeding?