Avo ParentingPregnancy & Food
Mahi Mahi

Mahi Mahi

Caution★★★★★

Fish & Seafood

Mahi mahi is a firm, flavorful fish rich in DHA, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins. While nutritious, it falls into a moderate-mercury category, so it should be enjoyed thoughtfully during pregnancy. Proper cooking and portion awareness let you still benefit from its nutrients.

Why it's good in pregnancy

DHA and omega-3s in mahi mahi support your baby's brain and eye development, while its protein contributes to healthy tissue growth. The B vitamins in mahi mahi support energy metabolism and nervous system development. When eaten in moderation and cooked thoroughly, it can be a nutritious part of your pregnancy diet.

Key nutrients

DHASupports your baby's brain and eye development.
ProteinBuilds and supports your baby's growing tissues.
Omega-3Contributes to healthy fetal brain development.
B VitaminsSupport energy metabolism and nervous system function.

Serving ideas

Grilled mahi mahi cooked thoroughly with a squeeze of citrus
Baked mahi mahi with herbs, served occasionally
Mahi mahi tacos made with fully cooked fish

Safety

Mahi mahi has a moderate mercury content compared to low-mercury fish, so it's best to limit how often you eat it during pregnancy rather than having it as a frequent staple. Always cook it thoroughly until opaque and flaky, avoiding raw or undercooked preparations. Balancing mahi mahi with other low-mercury fish options can help you enjoy variety while managing overall mercury exposure. Your healthcare provider can help you determine an appropriate serving frequency for your situation.

Moderate-mercury — limit; cook thoroughly.

Buy mahi mahi from a reputable source and keep it well chilled, using it within a day or two or freezing for later. Cook it thoroughly until it is opaque throughout and flakes easily, avoiding any raw or undercooked preparations. Because of its moderate mercury level, limit how frequently you include it in your diet and vary your seafood choices with lower-mercury options. Store and handle raw fish carefully, washing hands and surfaces after contact.

Common questions

Is mahi mahi safe to eat during pregnancy?It can be eaten in moderation during pregnancy, but due to its moderate mercury content it shouldn't be a frequent choice.
How often can I eat mahi mahi during pregnancy?It's best enjoyed occasionally rather than regularly; ask your healthcare provider for guidance on your overall fish intake.
What's a lower-mercury alternative to mahi mahi?Fish like sole or flounder are lower in mercury and can be enjoyed more frequently.

Did you know?

Mahi mahi is also known as dolphinfish, though it is unrelated to dolphins.
It's a fast-growing, fast-swimming fish often found in warmer ocean waters.
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