Can I eat crab during pregnancy?
Aug 29, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
In general, pregnant women can eat crabs, but it is not recommended to consume them in large quantities. When eating crabs, choose fresh, reliable sources, thoroughly clean them, and ensure they are fully cooked to avoid bacterial or parasitic infections. Each serving should be moderate, preferably 1-2 pieces of crab meat, to avoid excessive digestive burden or discomfort.
Generally speaking, pregnant women can eat crabs, but it is not recommended to consume them in large quantities. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Crabs contain high-quality protein that provides essential nutrients for fetal tissue development and supports fetal growth. They also contain minerals such as calcium and iron. Calcium promotes fetal bone and tooth development, while iron helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Moderate consumption of crab can supplement various nutrients to meet the body's needs during pregnancy.
When consuming crabs, choose fresh, reliable sources. Thoroughly clean the crabs and ensure they are fully cooked to avoid bacterial or parasitic infections. The quantity consumed at each time should not be excessive; 1-2 crab servings are recommended to avoid overburdening digestion or causing discomfort. Pregnant women in the early stages of pregnancy, or those experiencing threatened miscarriage, with allergic constitutions, or suffering from coldness in the spleen and stomach should consume crabs cautiously or consult a doctor before eating. When eating crab, focus on the crab meat and avoid consuming crab claws. Do not combine crab with cold-natured ingredients. If discomfort such as abdominal pain or diarrhea occurs after consumption, stop immediately and seek medical attention.
