Maternal Seafood Consumption in Pregnancy and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Childhood
Authors: Joseph R. Hibbeln, et al.
U.S. National Institutes of Health
Journal: The Lancet, February 2007
Summary: Researchers followed nearly 12,000 mother/child pairs enrolled in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) to assess the impact of factors such as diet and lifestyle on health and growth during pregnancy. Mothers who eat the most seafood during pregnancy — more than 12 ounces per week — have children with the highest developmental outcomes. Researchers conclude advice to limit seafood consumption could be detrimental to optimal fetal development.