Women who eat more fish during pregnancy, especially salmon, can enhance not only their unborn baby's eyesight, but also the baby's brain functions.

It seems that with each pregnancy, women are being told different facts about what they should and shouldn't be eating. Throughout generations, the guidelines have changed and it is hard to stay up to date. One topic that is highly discussed through pregnancy is consuming fish. Pregnant women have been instructed to not eat sushi, to avoid different types of fish and to not consume too much tuna fish due to possible mercury poisoning.

Pregnant women are now being told that they should consume more fish during pregnancy because it is healthy for them and their little baby. During a recent study, researchers found that fatty acids consumed during pregnancy as well as breastfeeding can help shape the nerve cells that help improve eyesight and help with the nervous system.

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The study compared 56 women and their babies. The researchers analyzed the food consumed during pregnancy and breastfeeding and proved that the fatty acids that are found in fish are important in "forming the synapses that are vital in the transport of messages between neurons in the nervous system." The results of the study concluded that the amount of fish consumption during pregnancy increased the overall eyesight and brain function of the children. The children were tested at one month old, one year old, and two years old and their tests were compared to the food diaries during their mother's pregnancy.

Fish usually contains Omega3 fatty acids which is very healthy. Omega3 helps in the development of babies, but it is very important to be careful of the type of fish that is consumed while pregnant. Some fish such as shark, orange roughy, swordfish, and ling can contain high levels of mercury. When a baby is exposed to too much mercury it can adversely affect the baby's nervous system which can lead to delayed speech and movement. Both of which are obviously the opposite of what mothers want for their babies. Also, mothers are encouraged to stay away from raw seafood and chilled prawns. Make sure to cook all fish thoroughly to at least 63 degrees. Some of the best types of fish to eat while pregnant are salmon, tilapia, and even trout! Yum! So, cook up that fish mama!

Of course, consult your doctor to determine which kind of diet may be the best for you and your baby.

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