Can You Eat Sushi While Breastfeeding?

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By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Eat Sushi While Breastfeeding?

Yes, you can enjoy sushi while breastfeeding, so feel free to satisfy that craving for a California roll or a spicy tuna! The dietary restrictions for raw fish mainly apply during pregnancy, but become more relaxed once your baby is born and while you're nursing.

However, this doesn't mean a complete free-for-all at the sushi bar. According to the FDA, it's still important to be mindful of the types of fish you're consuming. Some fish can be high in mercury, which can pass into your breast milk. Large, predatory fish like swordfish, shark, king mackerel and tilefish are the biggest culprits and should be avoided. 

But don't let that overshadow the fact that many types of fish are packed with beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Just remember, balance and variety are key.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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  1. U.S Food & Drug Administration"Advice about Eating Fish"Sep 27, 2022https://www.fda.gov/food/consumers/advice-about-eating-fish.


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Updated on Dec 3, 2023

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Can You Eat Sushi While Breastfeeding?

 Krystal Duhaney Profile Photo
By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Eat Sushi While Breastfeeding?

Yes, you can enjoy sushi while breastfeeding, so feel free to satisfy that craving for a California roll or a spicy tuna! The dietary restrictions for raw fish mainly apply during pregnancy, but become more relaxed once your baby is born and while you're nursing.

However, this doesn't mean a complete free-for-all at the sushi bar. According to the FDA, it's still important to be mindful of the types of fish you're consuming. Some fish can be high in mercury, which can pass into your breast milk. Large, predatory fish like swordfish, shark, king mackerel and tilefish are the biggest culprits and should be avoided. 

But don't let that overshadow the fact that many types of fish are packed with beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Just remember, balance and variety are key.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. U.S Food & Drug Administration"Advice about Eating Fish"Sep 27, 2022https://www.fda.gov/food/consumers/advice-about-eating-fish.


Share via