| Fish, specifically shellfish and "boney" fish, are | | | | concern for women who are considering getting |
| known allergens for an infant. It is often | | | | pregnant, who are currently pregnant, who are |
| recommended to introduce fish only after a baby | | | | breastfeeding and also for infants and young |
| has reached 1 year of age. Many sources suggest | | | | children. It is very important that those falling into |
| waiting until after 3 years old. Still, other sources | | | | the above groups do not consume fish with high |
| say that introducing fish to a baby at 9-10 | | | | levels of mercury!! It has been found that fish |
| months old is perfectly safe. Shellfish should not | | | | species such as swordfish, king mackerel, shark |
| be introduced to a child who may be allergy prone | | | | and tilefish contain the highest amounts of |
| until around 3 years old or even older. Shellfish | | | | mercury. Mercury can do severe damage to |
| such as lobster, oysters et al. can induce deadly | | | | developing nervous systems should consumption |
| allergic reactions. | | | | of mercury tainted fish be commonplace. Salmon, |
| Yet another reason it is suggested to wait to | | | | contrary to popular belief, has lower levels of |
| introduce fish to an infant is due to the levels of | | | | mercury than one typically believes. Cold water |
| mercury that fish may contain. Mercury levels in | | | | fish have lower levels of mercury and also contain |
| fish has been and will remain a large health | | | | higher levels of Omega 3's. |