Fish is the best food for the brain. American scientists have once again confirmed that consuming more fish during the second trimester of pregnancy will aid in the complete development of the fetus’s brain. However, only seafood with low mercury levels is considered safe.
Dr. Emily Oken and her colleagues from Harvard University studied the effects of fish consumption on 135 mothers and their children. The results showed that those who ate more fish during the second trimester had children who performed impressively on memory and visual tests at just 6 months old. The reason for this is that fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, the most effective component for promoting brain development.
In the study, data were collected on the frequency of fish consumption among pregnant women during the second trimester, and hair samples were taken to test for mercury levels. When their children reached 6 months old, the babies were given a visual memory assessment. They were shown a picture several times until they showed signs of familiarity. Then, a new picture was placed next to the old one. The children’s scores were based on how long they focused on the new picture, indicating that they remembered the old one and were intrigued by the new one. Experts believe this test effectively measures the potential benefits of fish consumption, as it engages both brain and visual functions. The results revealed that for every additional fish meal consumed per week by the mother, the child’s intelligence test score increased by 4 points.
However, for mothers with higher mercury levels in their hair, their children tended to score lower on tests. This indicates that while fish is brain food for pregnant women, it is essential to choose safe seafood options.
Mercury is a metal found in the natural environment or as a result of industrial pollution. Most fish and shellfish are contaminated with mercury, but only certain larger fish that live longer accumulate enough to potentially harm fetal brain development. Therefore, American scientists recommend that pregnant women avoid fish such as shark, swordfish, and king mackerel, and opt for safer choices like albacore tuna (which has higher mercury levels than white tuna) and salmon. White-fleshed fish generally contain less mercury but also have lower omega-3 fatty acid content.
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