Ceviche, which is a Latin word meaning “cooked by acid”, is one of the most confusing foods to consume while pregnant. Aside from the obvious question of whether or not it’s safe, there are several other concerns to be aware of. Some of them are related to the aforementioned question of whether or not it’s actually healthy to eat.
As for the question of whether or not it’s the best option, the answer is a resounding no. Not only is it not as nutritious as its cooked counterpart, it can also be a source of foodborne illnesses.
One of the most common causes of food poisoning in pregnant women is eating undercooked or raw seafood. Raw fish can be contaminated with bacteria, parasites and other pathogens. These microorganisms can infect both the pregnant woman and her unborn child. While this may not seem like a big deal to you, it can be dangerous for your baby.
For this reason, it’s wise to steer clear of all forms of raw seafood. Whether you’re making it at home or buying it at the supermarket, make sure to check the label for any potential warnings. In addition to this, you should also ask the staff at the restaurant where you’re going for a bit of clarification. You may find that their recommendations are a little different than your own.
Fortunately, there are some safe and tasty alternative options for pregnant ladies who crave the taste of ceviche. You can saute your fish in lemon or lime juice with some butter. This recipe is not only easy to make, it will also give you similar results. However, it’s important to remember to cook your fish to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s no secret that pregnancy is tough on the immune system. Because of this, it’s especially important to ingest as much of the recommended daily quota of iron. Pregnant women are also at risk of anemia. Eating iron rich foods such as fish can help boost the levels of this important mineral.
When it comes to choosing which type of seafood to eat during your pregnancy, opt for non-predatory fish such as sardines. Fish that are lower in mercury are also a good choice. Similarly, shrimp is not as hazardous as you may think. If you must eat shrimp during your pregnancy, make sure to purchase only the freshest varieties and keep it refrigerated as soon as it’s served.
When it comes to ceviche, there is a lot of debate among experts about the best way to make it. For instance, some say that the best way to cook it is by soaking it in citrus juice. Others believe that the acid present in the juice does not actually “cook” the fish. The acid does however, change its color and texture. Regardless of the debate, it’s best to choose a recipe that uses fresh ingredients instead of pre-packaged products.
Another way to make sure you’re doing the right thing is to read up on the health benefits of seafood and the different types of fish that are deemed to be safe. This will help you to decide what you can and can’t eat. Also, don’t be afraid to seek the opinion of your doctor or other health care provider if you’re unsure.
