Can I Eat Shark During Pregnancy?

Jul 19

At a Glance:

⚠️ Concern: Shark is a high-mercury fish, which may harm fetal brain and nervous system development.
🔥 Risk Level: Not safe during pregnancy. Strongly advised to avoid.
✅ Safe Practices: Choose low-mercury fish like salmon, tilapia, or sardines instead.

Shark might be considered a delicacy in some cuisines, but during pregnancy, it’s a fish best left off the plate. While seafood can be a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, not all fish are safe to eat while expecting—and shark is among the riskiest.

Let’s dive into why shark is not recommended during pregnancy and what safer alternatives you can enjoy instead.

Why Shark Is Unsafe During Pregnancy

Shark is one of several large predatory fish known to accumulate high levels of mercury in their tissues. Mercury is a heavy metal that can cross the placenta and interfere with fetal development.

Risks of Mercury Exposure During Pregnancy:

Impaired brain development
Delayed speech and motor skills
Lower IQ in childhood
Neurological and behavioral issues

Because sharks are long-living and eat other fish, they are especially high on the food chain—and therefore among the worst offenders for mercury buildup.

What Do Health Authorities Say?

Organizations like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend that pregnant individuals avoid shark altogether during pregnancy.

Other fish to avoid for the same reason include:

Swordfish
King mackerel
Tilefish (from the Gulf of Mexico)
Marlin

Safer Seafood Alternatives During Pregnancy

You don’t have to cut out fish completely—just opt for low-mercury varieties that offer the benefits of omega-3s without the risk. Safe and nutritious options include:

✅ Salmon
✅ Sardines
✅ Trout
✅ Tilapia
✅ Catfish
✅ Shrimp
✅ Pollock

These are all rich in nutrients and low in mercury, making them ideal choices for pregnancy.

Tips for Eating Fish Safely While Pregnant

✅ Eat 2–3 servings (8–12 oz) of low-mercury fish per week
✅ Always cook fish to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
✅ Avoid raw, smoked, or undercooked fish
✅ Pay attention to local advisories on freshwater fish safety

Conclusion: Skip the Shark While Pregnant

Shark may be a seafood option some enjoy, but it’s not safe during pregnancy due to dangerously high mercury levels. Choosing low-mercury fish instead allows you to gain all the nutritional benefits of seafood without putting your baby’s development at risk.

When planning your meals, talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions about which fish are best for you and your baby.

Disclaimer: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions regarding your health, pregnancy, or medical conditions.

Reference: https://www.fda.gov/food/consumers/advice-about-eating-fish#choice