Best Fish for Pregnant Women
Eating fish during pregnancy can provide essential nutrients and health benefits. However, it's crucial to choose the right types of fish. Here are several fish varieties that are particularly beneficial for pregnant women:
Carp (鲫鱼)
Carp is known for its ability to enhance energy and spleen function, promote diuresis, and alleviate swelling. It's also effective in clearing heat and detoxifying the body. For patients with abdominal water retention, a soup made of fresh carp and red beans can be therapeutic. Additionally, combining fresh carp with pig trotter for braising can be beneficial for postpartum women dealing with insufficient milk. Carp oil is advantageous for cardiovascular health, as it can lower blood viscosity and improve circulation.
Common Carp (鲤鱼)
Common carp is another excellent option due to its properties that support spleen function, stimulate appetite, and act as a diuretic. It's particularly helpful for pregnant women, as it helps to calm the fetus and enhances milk production. A soup combining carp, winter melon, and scallions can assist in treating kidney-related water retention. Furthermore, live carp when cooked with pig trotters can help in increasing milk supply. In cases of coughing and asthma, a broth of carp and a touch of Sichuan fritillary bulb is beneficial.
White Catfish (鲢鱼)
White catfish, renowned for its warming qualities, aids digestion and improves skin health. This fish is considered a nourishing food that can support wellness during pregnancy.
Green Fish (青鱼)
The green fish offers benefits that include boosting energy, enhancing digestion, and promoting fluid elimination. Its microelements such as zinc and selenium are valuable for cancer prevention.
Black Fish (黑鱼)
Black fish promotes spleen health, aids in diuresis, and helps prevent stagnation in the body. When cooked with ginger and red dates, it can serve as an adjunct therapy for tuberculosis. Furthermore, a dish of black fish stewed with brown sugar may assist in treating kidney inflammation. Consuming steamed black fish can help postpartum women with milk production and blood replenishment.
Squid (墨鱼)
Squid is beneficial for nourishing the liver and kidneys, enhancing blood circulation, and promoting gastrointestinal health. This seafood is particularly supportive for women, with properties that encourage blood nourishment, improve vision, regulate menstruation, stabilize pregnancy, facilitate childbirth, stop bleeding, and stimulate lactation.
Grass Carp (草鱼)
Grass carp is known for its ability to warm the stomach, balance liver function, and eliminate wind from the body. This makes it a valuable part of a nourishing diet during pregnancy.
Fish to Avoid During Pregnancy
While many fish are beneficial for pregnant women, there are certain types that should be avoided due to their high mercury content. Shark, mackerel, swordfish, and tilefish can pose risks as mercury can adversely affect the fetal central nervous system, impeding brain development.
Conclusion
Selecting the right types of fish can significantly benefit pregnant women, providing essential nutrients and promoting overall health. It's essential to incorporate these fish into your diet while avoiding the ones with high mercury levels for a healthy pregnancy.