Based on the environment Swai fish are produced, it is better to avoid eating it during pregnancy. Over the past few years, Swai fish has become quite popular in the US. Although it tastes good but many people are still unaware of the surroundings and the way it is produced. More importantly, when it comes to pregnancy, it is vital for a woman to keep a check and be sure of everything she consumes. In this article, we will discuss in detail if eating Swai fish during pregnancy is considered to be safe or not.

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A Guide for Swai Fish During Pregnancy

Is it safe to eat fish during pregnancy?

• Fish is a rich source of protein, with being rich in vitamins and minerals.
• Eating fish during pregnancy is considered to be good for your health and for the development of your baby.
• Fish also consists of healthy fats called omega-3 fatty acids.
• DHA is also a type of omega-3 that helps with the development of your baby’s brain, eyes and nervous system.

Read More: 5 Fish Varieties to Avoid During Pregnancy

What is the Nutritional value of Swai fish?

Fish provides one with rich supplies of lean protein and omega-3 fat. Considering Swai fish, its protein content is average in comparison with other fish and it also offers very little omega-3 fat.

Let us look at the nutritional value of Swai fish in detail. Here we have considered a 4-ounce serving of uncooked Swai:

• Calories: 70
• Fat: 1.5 grams
• Cholesterol: 45 grams
• Carbs: 0 grams
• Protein: 15 grams
• Omega-3 fat: 11 mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Niacin: 14% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
• Vitamin B12: 19% of the RDI
• Selenium: 26% of the RDI

Read More: 6 Most Nutritious Fishes for a Pregnant Woman

Why is there a concern about Swai fish farming?

Now, this has always been of major concern. Mainly because a large number of Swai fish farms end up generating a lot of waste products which are then dumped into rivers, illegally.

Also, Swai fish farms make use of a lot of chemical agents, like disinfectants, anti-parasitic drugs and antibiotics. All these waste products when disposed into rivers negatively affects the ecosystem.

Another concern is regarding the mercury contamination. As per some studies, the mercury levels in Swai have found to be acceptable. However, as per other research, mercury levels in Swai were found to be above the recommended limits of World Health Organization and that too, in 50% of its tested samples.

Both these concerns thus possess a need for better quality of water on Swai fish farms. And also, a need for better control checks when the fish is being imported.

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Are antibiotics used during the production of Swai?

There are higher risks of infectious diseases in the fish when Swai or some other fish are grown on crowded fish farms. And thus, in order to reduce and eliminate the bacterial infections, Swai fish are given antibiotics and other drugs as well, on a regular basis.

Apart from that, even if there is regular and proper inspection of the fish regarding the antibiotics and other drugs, the frequent use of both of them can lead to the resistance of bacteria to the drugs. Thus, further reduces the effectiveness of medicine in humans.

Read More: Can Pregnant Women Eat Shrimp?

Can we replace fish with omega-3 supplements?

There’s no doubt that omega-3 supplements are a lot beneficial. However, if you decide to completely eliminate eating fish and only rely on omega-3 supplements, you will also be missing out on other essential nutrients. Thus, the best way is to choose from a variety of fish that are low in mercury and take omega-3 supplements in addition to that, if you want.

Other types of fish that should be avoided?

• During pregnancy, you must ensure that you do not eat any raw fish. Raw fish may consist of parasite and bacteria that may lead to illness.
• Avoid eating refrigerated seafood.
• In case, you aren’t sure of some particular fish, it is better to consult your health are provider.
• Only eat fish that is low in mercury.

Read More: Can I Eat Octopus While Pregnant?

Conclusion

Having discussed everything about Swai fish and the concerns regarding the same, it is best to avoid eating it. It comes from over-crowded fish farms where chemicals and antibiotics are used to a major extent. Not only this, it also leads to water pollution as the farms disposes all the waste into the rivers illegally, thus giving rise to a number of health issues as well.

Not only this, you may also come into notice of Swai fish being mislabeled and sold as a fish of higher value. Thereby, it is better to look for other fish in spite of Swai, for instance sole, salmon, haddock etc, especially during the time of pregnancy.

Read More: 7 Amazing Health Benefits of Eating Fatty Fish