Can you eat shrimp while pregnant? Shrimp is one of the most popular seafood choices for new mothers, and their appetizing flavor makes them a favorite of expectant mothers. But is it safe to eat shrimp that’s been cooked while pregnant?
In this article, we’ll look at the safety of shrimp – and what you should know about shrimp and pregnancy.
Contents
First of all, What is Shrimp?
Shrimp is an excellent choice for your baby. It is a good source of vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, protein, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and a variety of other nutrients. However, there are some risks to be aware of when it comes to shrimp. While pregnant, you may encounter several risks – which we will outline below.
How is Eating Shrimp While Pregnant Different Than Eating it When you’re not Pregnant?
The biggest difference is the type of meat you are eating. While it is generally safe to eat shrimp that’s been cooked, there may be some danger if it’s been allowed to heat up too much. Shrimp that has been allowed to boil or become tender on the outside can easily be destroyed by intense heat, so avoid boiling shrimp during pregnancy.
Be sure to keep shrimp away from any other hot water source, as well – meaning tea, coffee, and hot cocoa can definitely be ruled out! This is especially important if you decide to cook shrimp that is intended for consumption during the second or third trimester of your pregnancy.
How is Eating Shrimp Different than Preparing it yourself?
In general, while preparing seafood you have more control over the quality, freshness, texture, and safety of the product. You can usually find commercially prepared shrimp but prepare it yourself to ensure it’s safe. Typically, it’s best to stick with the meat of the fish (shrimp and lobster), as the flesh can be easily torn without endangering the baby.
Can you Eat Shrimp While Pregnant?
While it is definitely safe to consume fish that have been cooked, it is important to stay clear of sea animals (fish, crabs, lobsters, clams, etc.) as, well as poultry products such as eggs, chickens, and eggs white (yolk).
What are the Health Risks Involved with Shrimp?
Shrimp can have a negative impact on the health of both you and your baby, due to high levels of threat to the developing baby. Specifically, pregnant women are particularly at risk because their uterus is already filled with amniotic fluid, which prevents the baby from receiving oxygen and nutrients normally supplied by the mother. Eating high-quality shrimp can significantly reduce this threat, thereby reducing the risk of complications and possible labor.
So, Can you Eat Shrimp?
If you do decide to include it in your diet, it’s best to stay clear of any that contain the chemical compounds commonly found in aged shrimp. These include: bay laurel, sulfites, creatine, and theflatoxins.
If you absolutely must have some, look for it to be frozen (most brands sell frozen shrimp that has been specifically treated with preventative freezing techniques). To find out if it’s safe for you and your baby, consult with your physician or midwife.
It is safe to eat fresh shrimp during pregnancy, but avoid dried (shrimp has a very long shelf life!) and pickled shrimp. Pregnant women should also stay away from any seafood that contains fish or other low-fat animal fat. As for alcohol, if you are trying to conceive, abstain from drinking!
The good news is that there are many options to satisfy that craving for something spicy when you can’t eat shrimp while pregnant. Many restaurants offer special seafood selections that are safe for you and your baby.
If you really want to party, consider having some prawns or shrimp salad. These foods are both light and healthy, and the best part is they don’t require much preparation! Try to stick with light grilled or baked foods if you want to avoid cooking time-consuming foods that can cause your labor to last longer.
There are some precautions to follow if you can’t eat shrimp while pregnant, however. Any meat or shellfish should be prepared correctly to avoid any contamination risks. Don’t use uncooked shrimp or cooked seafood that hasn’t been prepared properly.
Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or midwife if a certain seafood dish would be safe for you and your pregnancy. You don’t have to worry about not being able to eat shrimp while pregnant because you’re just looking out for your health.
Maintaining a healthy diet while trying to conceive is important, but it’s also important to prepare your food correctly. That means making sure that it’s fresh, carefully cooked, and prepared with utmost care!
