Squid is popular because it has a delicious, savory taste, and can be processed into a variety of dishes. However, considering that not all types seafood good to be consumed during pregnancy, some pregnant women may wonder, is squid safe to eat during pregnancy?
Squid contains protein, vitamin B vitamin E, iron, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, potassium, magnesium, choline, and zinc.
Thanks to its fairly diverse nutrition, squid is good for consumption to meet the nutritional intake of pregnant and lactating women, as well as to support the process of fetal growth and development. This food is also good to be consumed as one type of food seafood to maintain a healthy heart and brain.
Safety Facts About Eating Squid During Pregnancy
If pregnant women are craving for squid, there's no need to doubt about its safety, OK? Squid is considered safe for consumption by pregnant women because it does not contain much mercury.
Omega-3 fatty acids, which are high in squid, can support the development of the eyes, brain and nervous system of the fetus in the womb. The intake of these nutrients also plays a role in preventing pregnant women from experiencing premature labor and postpartum depression.
In addition, the iron content in squid can meet the red blood cell needs of pregnant women and fetuses, and can prevent anemia.
Tips for Safe Eating Squid During Pregnancy
Squid is considered safe for consumption and has benefits for the health of pregnant women and the development of the fetus in the womb. However, pregnant women should not eat squid in excess. To stay safe, the recommended serving of squid for pregnant women is about 12 ounces per week.
In addition, pregnant women also need to pay attention to the following before consuming squid:
- Choose fresh squid. Avoid buying squid that has changed color, is slimy, and smells bad.
- Wash your hands before processing the squid.
- Wash the squid with running water.
- Cook the squid until completely cooked, for example by frying, sautéing, or grilling.
- Wash hands and clean cooking utensils after handling squid to prevent contamination with germs.
Eating squid during pregnancy can bring many benefits if consumed in reasonable limits and processed in a good and correct way.
In addition, in order to maintain a healthy pregnancy and fetus, make sure pregnant women continue to consume other healthy foods and pregnancy supplements to meet their nutritional needs during pregnancy, as well as exercise regularly, get enough rest, reduce stress, avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, and don't smoke.
Although nutritious, unfortunately squid can sometimes cause allergic reactions. Therefore, if pregnant women have a history of allergies to this seafood, pregnant women should replace squid with seafood options that are also safe and healthy, such as salmon, shellfish, oysters, and shrimp.
If pregnant women still have further questions about eating squid during pregnancy or a healthy diet during pregnancy, don't hesitate to ask the doctor directly, OK?