FDA and EPA have issued advice regarding eating fish. This advice can help women who are pregnant or may become pregnant - as well as breastfeeding mothers and parents and caregivers feeding children 2 years and older - make informed choices when it comes to fish that are nutritious and safe to eat. This advice supports the recommendations of the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, developed for people 2 years and older. For advice about feeding children under 2 years of age, you can consult the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The advice features a chart that makes it easier than ever to choose dozens of healthy and safe options and includes information about the nutritional value of fish. A set of frequently asked questions & answers provides more information on how to use the chart and additional tips for eating fish.

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Translations

Eating fish ‡ when pregnant or breastfeeding can provide health benefits.

Fish and other protein-rich foods have nutrients that can help your child’s growth and development. As part of a healthy eating pattern, eating fish may also offer heart health benefits and lower the risk of obesity.

Nutritional Value of Fish The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends: At least 8 ounces of seafood (less for young children) per week based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consume between 8 and 12 ounces of a variety of seafood per week, from choices that are lower in mercury. Fish are part of a healthy eating pattern and provide: Protein

Healthy omega-3 fats (called DHA and EPA)

More vitamin B 12 and vitamin D than any other type of food

and vitamin D than any other type of food Iron which is important for infants, young children, and women who are pregnant or who could become pregnant

Other minerals like selenium, zinc, and iodine.

Choose a variety of fish that are lower in mercury.

While it is important to limit mercury in the diets of women who are pregnant and breastfeeding and young children, many types of fish are both nutritious and lower in mercury.

This chart can help you choose which fish to eat, and how often to eat them, based on their mercury levels.

What is a serving? As a guide, use the palm of your hand.