Eels are a type of fish that can be eaten as seafood. Many women who consume it regularly may crave eel during pregnancy. The fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and several minerals, including magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, and zinc. However, eels must be prepared properly because eating them raw or undercooked can be dangerous. Read on as in this post we acquaint you with the safety and various health benefits of eating eel while pregnant.
What Is Eel?
Eel is a long serpentine fish, which is extremely slippery and quite difficult to catch. The fish is quite popular in Indonesia and is a delicacy exported worldwide. Eel is in great demand in Japan as it offers many health benefits. Eel is rich in nutrients so adding it to your pregnancy diet can ensure good health for you and the proper development of the little one in your womb.
Health Benefits Of Eating Eel During Pregnancy
Some ways in which eating eel while pregnant can work wonders for your health:
1. Boosts stamina
Eels possess a high amount of calories, as high as 1,350 calories per pound and 303 kcal per 100 grams of meat. Adding the fish to your pregnancy diet can fulfill your increased energy requirement and help fight fatigue (1).
2. Storehouse of proteins
Eel is an excellent source of proteins. Protein content in eel is as high as 18.4 g per 100 grams of meat. As you know, proteins are building blocks for cells in our body. A regular intake of proteins while expecting aids the growth and development of the fetus.
3. Enhances muscle tone
Eels contain arginine, an amino acid that triggers the resting human growth hormone (HGH). Eating the fish helps improve your muscle tone and minimizes the accumulation of fats in your body during pregnancy. So you can control your weight gain during these nine months if you include the fish in your meal plans. Arginine reduces the risk of breast cancer since it inhibits the growth of malignant cells. So, adding it to your diet is a must.
4. Rich source of vitamins
Eel is a rich source of Vitamin A and Vitamin B12 (2). Including it in your prenatal diet can increase the antioxidants in your body that help fight macular degeneration, prevent oxidative stress and eliminate free radicals. It can also protect your little one from the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and neural tube defects like spina bifida, anencephaly, encephalocele (3).
5. Makes bones strong and healthy
Eels also contain the phosphorus mineral. So, consuming eel is beneficial during pregnancy to ensure you have strong and healthy bones, and your unborn baby enjoys a good skeletal development.
Can Pregnant Women Eat Eel?
Yes, it is safe to consume eel while expecting, but in moderate quantities. As eating anything in excess, during this delicate phase, can spell danger for both you and your baby. Also, make sure you fully cook the eel to at least 145°F before consuming it during pregnancy. Eating the cooked fish aids in minimizing the risk of stomach infection and food poisoning. It is also advisable to consult your doctor before adding Eel to your pregnancy diet (4).
