Can You Eat Calamari During Pregnancy? – Find Out If It’s Safe or Not!

Yes, calamari is safe during pregnancy and offers great benefits like high protein. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help with fetal brain development. Consuming calamari can support energy levels. It’s a popular seafood dish worldwide.

Key benefits of eating calamari while pregnant:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Contains omega-3s which may support fetal brain development
Protein: High in protein to help with maternal tissue growth and repair
Vitamins: Provides vitamin B12 which aids in nervous system health
Minerals: Contains selenium that supports immune function
Low Calorie: May assist in maintaining healthy weight gain during pregnancy

Safety Tip: If you’re wondering if a food is safe to eat while pregnant, it’s best to consult with an OB-GYN or registered dietician who specializes in pregnancy. “Most foods are safe to consume during pregnancy and it’s smart to enjoy a variety of foods to get the most nutrients,” says Largeman-Roth.

Nutritional Benefits of Calamari During Pregnancy

While Calamari is low in saturated fat, it is rich in proteins and essential minerals like selenium and vitamin B12, supporting maternal health.

What’s more, it aids brain development with its omega-3 content.

Calamari is nutrient-dense, making it an ideal choice for a pregnancy diet. Below is a breakdown of its key nutritional values:

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Protein	15.6g
Total Fat	1.4g
Carbohydrates	3.1g
Vitamin B12	1.3µg
Selenium	44.8µg
Phosphorus	221mg
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	0.5g
Iron	0.9mg
Calcium	32mg
Vitamin C	4.7mg
Potassium	246mg

How Much Calamari is Safe to Eat During Pregnancy?

Calamari can be consumed about 5 ounces (140 grams) per week during pregnancy. This amount provides essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice. It’s advisable to incorporate calamari into your diet during the first and third trimesters, when smaller portions can help with digestive issues. Cooking methods like steaming or grilling are recommended to preserve nutritional value.

Possible Side Effects of Eating Calamari During Pregnancy

While Calamari are generally safe, there are some risks to keep in mind:

Mercury Levels: Consuming large amounts may expose you to mercury, which can affect your baby’s developing nervous system.
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergies, causing hives, swelling, or digestive issues.
Foodborne Illness: Eating undercooked or raw calamari increases the risk of bacterial infections like listeria.
Digestive Discomfort: High fat content in fried calamari can cause indigestion or heartburn, especially during pregnancy.
Sodium Intake: Processed calamari often contains high sodium, which can raise blood pressure and affect fluid balance.

Good Alternatives to Calamari During Pregnancy

Calamari are a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, but not everyone may want to consume them. Whether you’re looking for pregnancy-safe options or variety in your diet, here are some reasons why you may need an alternative:

Dislike the texture of Calamari
Allergic to shellfish
Need to avoid high cholesterol foods
Seeking mercury-free options

Pregnancy-Friendly Alternatives

Here are some nutrient-dense alternatives that provide protein, fiber, iron, and healthy fats without high mercury content or allergen concerns:

Alternative	Key Benefits	Best Way to Eat It
Chickpeas	Rich in protein and fiber	Roasted or in salads
Lentils	Iron-packed, boosts energy	Cooked in soups or stews
Tofu	High in protein, versatile	Stir-fried or grilled
Quinoa	Complete protein, gluten-free	Boiled or in salads
Salmon	Omega-3s, low mercury	Baked or grilled

If you’re avoiding Calamari due to allergies or digestion concerns, opt for chickpeas or lentils, as they have high fiber and better digestibility and provide similar benefits.

Choose the one that best suits your needs, and enjoy a balanced diet for you and your baby!

Learn about other food items, whether they are safe or not:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I eat Calamari during the first trimester of pregnancy?

Yes, you can eat Calamari during the first trimester, as long as it’s cooked thoroughly. Cooking Calamari reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses, which is crucial during early pregnancy when your baby’s organs are developing.

2. Can I eat Calamari during the second trimester of pregnancy?

Eating Calamari in the second trimester is safe if it’s well-cooked. It provides essential nutrients like protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support your baby’s growth. Avoid raw or undercooked seafood to prevent bacterial infections.

3. Can I eat Calamari during the third trimester of pregnancy?

Yes, you can enjoy Calamari during the third trimester, provided it’s cooked properly. This ensures safety while giving you and your baby vital nutrients. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid excessive intake to maintain a balanced diet.

4. What are some common myths about Calamari and pregnancy?

A common myth is that all seafood, including Calamari, is unsafe during pregnancy. The truth is, cooked Calamari is safe and nutritious. Another myth suggests Calamari can cause allergies in babies, but there’s no scientific evidence supporting this.

5. Is Calamari healthy for pregnancy?

Calamari is healthy during pregnancy when cooked. It’s rich in protein, low in mercury, and provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting fetal development and maternal health. Avoid high-mercury seafood options.

6. What types of Calamari are safe during pregnancy?

Cooked Calamari, such as grilled, baked, or fried, is safe for pregnant women. Avoid raw or undercooked Calamari to prevent foodborne illnesses. Always ensure it’s prepared in a clean environment and cooked to a safe internal temperature.

7. Can you eat raw Calamari while pregnant?

It’s not safe to eat raw Calamari during pregnancy. Raw seafood may contain harmful bacteria or parasites, risking foodborne illnesses. Always eat well-cooked Calamari to ensure safety for you and your developing baby.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This website contains general information about conception, pregnancy, pregnancy products and parenting. The information is not complete or comprehensive. You should not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider. Nothing contained on this web site should be construed nor is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Should you have any healthcare related questions, please call or see your physician or other qualified healthcare provider promptly.