Can you eat tinned sardines when pregnant?

Ah, the cravings of pregnant women! Not always easy for those around them to keep up with the sometimes peculiar desires of these ladies! But after all, they are perfectly entitled to them! And we embrace all the wonderful little eccentricities because we love them! Among these unusual cravings, one that comes up is the consumption of tinned sardines during pregnancy! Yes indeed, we are talking about that little metal tin filled with tiny fish that does not always look terribly cheerful! Eccentric, we said? Whatever the case, it is worth asking the question. Are you actually allowed to eat tinned sardines when pregnant? We discuss it right now!

Pregnancy cravings — myth or reality?

Our pregnancy cravings — we are rather attached to them! This little privilege reserved especially for us, no one would dare take away from us, would they?! Behind these sometimes unusual cravings, like tinned sardines during pregnancy in particular, what lies beneath? Obviously, a great many studies have been carried out and a whole host of hypotheses have been drawn from them.

But the plain truth would seem to lie in a feminine whim to be pampered. We are not here to judge, but after all, should expectant mothers not be allowed to enjoy it?

In any case, one thing is certain — a craving for tinned sardines when you are not pregnant is hardly an everyday occurrence! And opinions are plentiful. For now, our question here centres on whether or not consuming them poses any risk to baby. Let us look at that straight away.

Is consuming tinned sardines during pregnancy risky for baby?

Well, rest assured! There is absolutely no risk to baby! You can happily clear out the sardine aisle at the supermarket! What a lucky lady you are — we know it!

Being able to satisfy this extraordinary sardine craving without any guilt — now that has brightened your day! Indeed, fish is even highly recommended for the benefits it brings, both to the mother and to baby. Here are those benefits in particular.

The benefits of tinned sardines during pregnancy

Fish is absolutely something you should include in your diet! And for good reason — it contains what we call the good fats, omega-3! And sardines in particular! These famous omega-3s will contribute to the development of baby's brain. And therefore are undoubtedly good for their health.

Fish is very nutritious. We therefore strongly recommend incorporating it into your meals at least twice a week. However, do be careful to favour fish with a low mercury content.

And ideally, go for species from eco-responsible fishing, such as trout, herring, mackerel, or wild salmon.

One small exception to be aware of

Indeed, on the subject of eating fish during pregnancy, one small caveat is worth knowing. In fact, there is one tinned fish to be wary of, and that is white tuna in particular. This fish is liable to contain a worrying concentration of mercury.

As a result, healthcare professionals recommend reducing the consumption of tuna during pregnancy in particular. Come on! Courage! Tuna can go back into the light salads after baby arrives!