Can Pregnant Women Eat Lobster? A nutritious seafood option for mom and baby.
Eating seafood while pregnant can be a tricky decision, and that’s especially true when it comes to crabs and lobsters. Both types of shellfish contain an amino acid called arginine, which has been found to increase the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight and high blood pressure in newborns when mom consumes too much of it during pregnancy. That doesn’t mean you should avoid these delicious crustaceans entirely, though; follow our guide on can pregnant women eat lobster while pregnant to learn how much you can safely eat during each trimester without compromising your baby’s health.
The protein benefits
Seafood is a great source of protein, and lobster is no exception. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a perfect pregnancy food. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illness.
The omega-3 fatty acids (three sentences): Omega-3 fatty acids are important for fetal brain development, and seafood is one of the best sources of these essential nutrients. Lobster is a particularly good choice, as it’s high in omega-3s.
Opt for low-mercury varieties
When it comes to seafood, variety is key to a healthy diet. And that goes for pregnant women, too! While you may have heard that pregnant women should avoid eating fish, that’s not necessarily true. In fact, seafood can be a great source of nutrients for both mom and baby.
Fresh fish is best
When it comes to eating fish during pregnancy, the fresher the better. That’s because fresh fish has less mercury than older fish. Mercury is a metal that can be harmful to both you and your baby. So, when choosing fish to eat during pregnancy, always go for the freshest option possible.
Have a serving at least once per week
Seafood is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that are important for pregnant women and their babies. Crab and lobster are especially high in selenium, which is important for fetal development. While there is some concern about mercury levels in seafood, the benefits of eating seafood during pregnancy outweigh the risks. So go ahead and enjoy a delicious crab or lobster dinner!
Seek out sustainable seafood sources
Sustainable seafood is good for the environment and the health of pregnant women and their babies. Seafood can be a nutritious part of a pregnancy diet, but it’s important to choose low-mercury options. Crab and lobster are two such options that are also relatively low in price. When buying crab or lobster, look for products that have been certified by an independent organization like the Marine Stewardship Council.
Seafood can be delicious!
Lobster is a type of seafood that can be eaten during pregnancy. It is safe for both mother and child when properly cooked. This nutritious food is high in protein, low in mercury, and contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the development of the brain and eyes. When choosing lobster, look for fresh, live options that have been properly handled and cooked. Avoid any that are dead or dying, as these may contain harmful bacteria. If you are unsure about how to select or prepare lobster, talk to your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for more information.
Vegans should seek plant sources of omega-3’s instead
While the jury is still out on whether or not it’s completely safe for pregnant women to eat lobster, many health professionals believe that the benefits of eating this nutritious seafood outweigh the risks. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for a developing baby’s brain and nervous system, and lobster is a good source of these important nutrients. Just be sure to cook the lobster thoroughly to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. If you’re still concerned about eating lobster while pregnant, talk to your doctor or midwife. They can help you make an informed decision about what’s best for you and your baby.
