Things to avoid in early pregnancy

Tuna is one of the most consumed seafood items in the United States. Whether you prefer tuna salad sandwiches, tuna casseroles, or tuna steaks, you might wonder if you can eat tuna while pregnant.

To answer this question, we spoke with nutritionists and OB-GYNs about the benefits and risks of eating tuna during pregnancy, along with safety tips to ensure you're taking the best care of yourself and your baby.

Foods to avoid during pregnancy

Is It Safe to Eat Tuna While Pregnant?

Although mercury contamination is certainly a concern for pregnant people, it's not recommended to abstain from all fish, including tuna, while you're pregnant. The benefits of eating tuna outweigh the risks, as long as you choose fish with low mercury content, and eat it in limited amounts.

The amount of tuna that's safe to consume during pregnancy depends on the type and your individual needs, says Rahaf Al Bochi, RDN, LD, founder of Olive Tree Nutrition.