Fish consumption during pregnancy

ALSPAC provided important evidence that eating fish during pregnancy, at the levels studied, was not associated with poorer developmental outcomes in children despite concerns about mercury exposure. The findings contributed to the evidence informing dietary advice for pregnant women and were translated into a PolicyBristol briefing on fish consumption and mercury. This supports a more balanced understanding of nutritional considerations and potential contaminant risks.

We consider this an important addition to clinical guidance as well as providing evidence for policymakers.

Sources:

• Maternal seafood consumption in pregnancy and neurodevelopmental outcomes in childhood (ALSPAC study): an observational cohort study
• US FDA/EPA fish advice during pregnancy
• ALSPAC mercury | PolicyBristol | University of Bristol