Previously, we covered on which meat and poultry postpartum mums need to eat and which to avoid. In this article, we’ll be looking into another confinement superfood—seafood!
Which seafood are safe and unsafe to eat after giving birth?
Fish is good for breastfeeding mums as it can help to provide nutrients through your breast milk like DHA which are great for your baby’s brains, eyes, and nervous system development. Postpartum mummies are recommended to consume eight to 12 ounces of fish varieties per week. It is important to eat healthily to heal faster during your postpartum period. And while many fish and seafood are good for us, not all are great for your postpartum body. So, which fish and seafood are safe to consume during your postpartum period and which should be avoided?
Let’s explore together, shall we?
Seafood Safe to Consume After Childbirth
Threadfin bream
New mummies can eat threadfin bream after giving birth. This fish has amino acids that help to accelerate your recovery and wound healing. Not only that, but it also boosts your energy.
Salmon
You may eat salmon during your postpartum period. Salmon is high in unsaturated fatty acids which help to lower blood cholesterol and blood lipids. This fish is also rich in DHA which helps to lighten your mood!
Perch
Perch is safe to eat after giving birth. It can help to nourish you and improve your energy after child delivery. This fish also has collagen in it which is great for your hair and skin!
Large head hairtail (Beltfish)
You can consume beltfish during your confinement period. Beltfish is great to hasten your recovery process. The omega-3 oil in it can help to improve your heart health and hemoglobin levels. Just make sure to cook it properly and it is good to go.
Basa fish
New mums can safely eat basa fish during their postpartum period. Basa fish has many essential nutrients which can help to nourish your body! It can also help you to quicken your recovery and wound healing.
Anchovy
Anchovy is great for new mummies! This fish has nutrients that can relieve indigestion and edema. Not only that, but anchovy may also prevent postpartum anaemia.
Catfish
Moreover, you can receive many health benefits from eating catfish during your confinement period. The essential nutrients can improve your heart health and help you to recover fast. Catfish can also help you to minimise the appearance of stretch marks. This is a bonus point for new mummies!
Silver pomfret
Postpartum mummies can eat silver pomfret after giving birth. This fish has many essential nutrients which ensure your overall health. Silver pomfret can help to reduce swelling and nourish blood circulation. Additionally, this fish can also prevent heart diseases and relieve digestion.
Prawn
You can surely eat prawns during your postpartum period. The nutrients in this seafood can improve recovery and ensure wound healing. Just remember to be careful if you have allergies to them. And do not forget to cook it properly too!
Sardine
Sardines are great for postpartum mums! It can help you to ensure a quick recovery and heart health. Just remember to consume fresh sardines and avoid the canned ones!
Consume in Moderation
Cuttlefish
New mums need to consume cuttlefish in moderation. This seafood contains nutrients that help to boost your metabolism and aid fatigue. But, it is quite difficult to digest it.
Silver carp
Silver carp can be eaten in moderation by postpartum mums. It has many nutrients which are great for postpartum mums. This fish is high in collagen which helps to reduce some stretch marks and improve your skin’s elasticity.
Tuna
You can eat tuna with caution during your confinement period. It helps to accelerate your recovery and supply many nutrients for you. Not only that, but tuna can also prevent postpartum anaemia. But, it has a high level of mercury which is not good for you.
Spanish mackerel
Spanish mackerel is safe for new mummies. But, you need to consume them in moderation. You can only eat two portions per week. This fish can help you to recover your energy and accelerate your recovery. However, you need to be careful because it has mercury in it.
Sea bass
In the postpartum period, new mummies can consume sea bass. But, in limited quantities only. This seafood is rich in protein which helps you to recover after childbirth.
Seafood to Avoid After Childbirth
Dried shredded squid
You can eat dried shredded squid in moderation after giving birth. However, it has high levels of MSG and sodium which may cause dehydration. So, it is best to limit your consumption of it.
Salted fish
Postpartum mummies need to limit their consumption of salted fish. This is because salted fish has high levels of salt which are not good for your recovery.
Shark
You need to avoid eating sharks during the postpartum period. It has mercury which is poisonous for infants. Avoid it at all costs until you fully recover!
Gazami crab
New mums cannot eat gazami crabs after childbirth. This is because it might cause you indigestion. It also can cause food poisoning, if it is not properly cooked.
Bamboo clam
You should not eat bamboo clams during the confinement period. If it is not properly prepared or undercooked, it may cause food poisoning.
Fish and seafood are essential for postpartum mummies!
In conclusion, postpartum mummies need to consume safe seafood after childbirth. This superfood can supply all the essential nutrients that you require for fast recovery. Just remember to double check with your healthcare professional for further queries.
Sources:
- https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/nutrition-guide-new-moms
- https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/breast-feeding-diet
Here are some seafood recipes that you may try out!
Check out which eggs, legumes, and soy are safe to eat during your postpartum and which should be avoided here!
Read more informative facts and recipes on Motherhood Story!