Postpartum Nutrition Nutritionists and Dietitians in 10028

Photo of Lisa R. Young - Dr. Lisa Young Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, CDN, LDN
Dr. Lisa Young Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, CDN, LDN
New York, NY 10028
Do you want to eat healthier, lose weight, or simply feel better? Yes, it's possible and I can help you. I am an internationally recognized registered dietitian nutritionist, adjunct professor at NYU, & author of Finally Full, Finally Slim & The Portion Teller Plan. I counsel adults, children and families on weight loss, a range of medical nutrition issues, wellness, and behavior modification (VIRTUAL appointments available.) I design individualized programs unique to YOU based on your health & medical needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. As a seasoned professional, I focus on the whole person, integrating mind, body and spirit.
Do you want to eat healthier, lose weight, or simply feel better? Yes, it's possible and I can help you. I am an internationally recognized registered dietitian nutritionist, adjunct professor at NYU, & author of Finally Full, Finally Slim & The Portion Teller Plan. I counsel adults, children and families on weight loss, a range of medical nutrition issues, wellness, and behavior modification (VIRTUAL appointments available.) I design individualized programs unique to YOU based on your health & medical needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. As a seasoned professional, I focus on the whole person, integrating mind, body and spirit.
(347) 970-8559 View (347) 970-8559
Photo of Shelley Rothbart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Shelley Rothbart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Serves Area
I provide customized nutritional plans created around your individual medical needs. I have over 20 years of experience having worked at several NY Hospitals including Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, New York Presbyterian and have publications in major medical journals. I have seen significant weight loss results in my clients and improvement in cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure and diabetic control..I work intimately with each individual providing a high level of support and personal attention. I am a very goal oriented person, I don't want to prolong the process of reaching achievement.
I provide customized nutritional plans created around your individual medical needs. I have over 20 years of experience having worked at several NY Hospitals including Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, New York Presbyterian and have publications in major medical journals. I have seen significant weight loss results in my clients and improvement in cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure and diabetic control..I work intimately with each individual providing a high level of support and personal attention. I am a very goal oriented person, I don't want to prolong the process of reaching achievement.
(646) 362-5321 View (646) 362-5321
Photo of Justine M Roth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CEDRD
Justine M Roth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CEDRD
Serves Area
I am an experienced Registered Dietitian, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders for adults, adolescents, and children. I am currently the director of the nutrition department at the NYS Psychiatric Institute, an in-patient treatment unit at Columbia University Medical Center. My philosophy is founded on the principle that being healthy does not require dieting or deprivation. We will work towards creating a healthy relationship with food by normalizing eating behaviors and developing the skills to make mindful decisions about food and your body.
I am an experienced Registered Dietitian, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders for adults, adolescents, and children. I am currently the director of the nutrition department at the NYS Psychiatric Institute, an in-patient treatment unit at Columbia University Medical Center. My philosophy is founded on the principle that being healthy does not require dieting or deprivation. We will work towards creating a healthy relationship with food by normalizing eating behaviors and developing the skills to make mindful decisions about food and your body.
(732) 654-2060 View (732) 654-2060
Photo of Cristina Veltri Illien, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Cristina Veltri Illien
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
I’m Cristina, a passionate Registered and Licensed Dietitian based in New York City. With years of experience and a deep commitment to women’s health, I’ve dedicated myself to understanding and addressing the unique challenges my female clients face. From navigating PCOS and other hormonal imbalances, to combating fatigue, autoimmune conditions, and relentless digestive issues, I’ve witnessed firsthand the common struggles that many women experience. Recognizing the limitations of conventional approaches and wanting to offer solutions that go beyond simple dietary advice, I immersed myself in the latest research on women’s health.
I’m Cristina, a passionate Registered and Licensed Dietitian based in New York City. With years of experience and a deep commitment to women’s health, I’ve dedicated myself to understanding and addressing the unique challenges my female clients face. From navigating PCOS and other hormonal imbalances, to combating fatigue, autoimmune conditions, and relentless digestive issues, I’ve witnessed firsthand the common struggles that many women experience. Recognizing the limitations of conventional approaches and wanting to offer solutions that go beyond simple dietary advice, I immersed myself in the latest research on women’s health.
(347) 846-2831 View (347) 846-2831
Photo of Adiana Castro - Compass Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CLT
Compass Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CLT
Online Only
Our patients are often overwhelmed, frustrated, and tired of nutrition plans that don’t work. Many are dealing with symptoms like bloating, fatigue, migraines, blood sugar swings, or weight changes—and want clear answers. They come to us for clarity, relief, and a sustainable way to eat that fits real life. We simplify nutrition with personalized, realistic plans based on how their body responds to food—helping them feel better, understand triggers, and build habits that last.
Our patients are often overwhelmed, frustrated, and tired of nutrition plans that don’t work. Many are dealing with symptoms like bloating, fatigue, migraines, blood sugar swings, or weight changes—and want clear answers. They come to us for clarity, relief, and a sustainable way to eat that fits real life. We simplify nutrition with personalized, realistic plans based on how their body responds to food—helping them feel better, understand triggers, and build habits that last.
(347) 577-9344 View (347) 577-9344

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Megan Byrd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Megan Byrd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
She has experience in PCOS, infertility, prenatal/ postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating in children, blood pressure and cholesterol management, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
Megan provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling for PCOS, infertility, prenatal/ postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating, blood pressure, cholesterol, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
She has experience in PCOS, infertility, prenatal/ postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating in children, blood pressure and cholesterol management, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
Megan provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling for PCOS, infertility, prenatal/ postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating, blood pressure, cholesterol, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
(346) 572-9634 View (346) 572-9634
Photo of Carlyn Rosenblum - MTHR Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
MTHR Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
New York, NY 10010
MTHR Nutrition, is a concierge nutrition service for women and families during pre-conception, pregnancy and postpartum.
At MTHR Nutrition we believe that high-quality prenatal nutrition is essential to healthy life for both mom and baby. The nine months of pregnancy is the most meaningful period in terms of influencing our health for the rest of our lives.
MTHR Nutrition, is a concierge nutrition service for women and families during pre-conception, pregnancy and postpartum.
At MTHR Nutrition we believe that high-quality prenatal nutrition is essential to healthy life for both mom and baby. The nine months of pregnancy is the most meaningful period in terms of influencing our health for the rest of our lives.
(301) 321-7678 View (301) 321-7678
Photo of Angela Rein, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CN-D
Angela Rein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CN-D
Rye Brook, NY 10573
I work with clients to develop customized, sustainable wellness plans that are realistic and easy to follow. In our first session, I take a deep dive into your personal health journey and provide a comprehensive and customized plan that addresses your specific health and lifestyle needs. Follow up sessions help support your goals, provide implemental steps in your journey and help hold you accountable. Clients enjoy knowing that they can email, call or text me anytime between office visits.
I work with clients to develop customized, sustainable wellness plans that are realistic and easy to follow. In our first session, I take a deep dive into your personal health journey and provide a comprehensive and customized plan that addresses your specific health and lifestyle needs. Follow up sessions help support your goals, provide implemental steps in your journey and help hold you accountable. Clients enjoy knowing that they can email, call or text me anytime between office visits.
(914) 246-5732 View (914) 246-5732
Photo of Nicole Holness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
Nicole Holness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
New York, NY 10018
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health.
Each woman’s health journey is unique, and so is my approach. I uncover the root cause of hormone imbalances, fertility issues, or reproductive concerns. My goal is to create a plan that delivers results and empowers you to feel vibrant and confident. Health should be nurtured with compassion and joy—because when you feel good, everything else falls in place
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health.
Each woman’s health journey is unique, and so is my approach. I uncover the root cause of hormone imbalances, fertility issues, or reproductive concerns. My goal is to create a plan that delivers results and empowers you to feel vibrant and confident. Health should be nurtured with compassion and joy—because when you feel good, everything else falls in place
(929) 264-5030 View (929) 264-5030
Photo of Ryann Kipping, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLEC
Ryann Kipping
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLEC
Online Only
I help women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or recently postpartum reach optimum health during these extremely important and emotional periods of life.
I offer one on one nutrition counseling sessions that all come with an interactive meal planning tool. All nutrition guidance is individualized and catered to each specific person. All my services are offered virtually.
I help women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or recently postpartum reach optimum health during these extremely important and emotional periods of life.
I offer one on one nutrition counseling sessions that all come with an interactive meal planning tool. All nutrition guidance is individualized and catered to each specific person. All my services are offered virtually.
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Photo of Shira Sussi - Shira Sussi Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Shira Sussi Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
I specialize in supporting individuals and families through the seasons of pregnancy, postpartum, and early childhood.
As a registered dietitian with a background in journalism and clinical nutrition, I bring both evidence-based expertise and clear, compassionate communication to every client interaction. My years as a clinical dietitian at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital—working with adult, perinatal, and pediatric populations—taught me that nutrition is as much about support and understanding as it is about science. Today, in my private practice, I combine that professional excellence with deep empathy to guide individuals and families through the powerful transition into parenthood.
I specialize in supporting individuals and families through the seasons of pregnancy, postpartum, and early childhood.
As a registered dietitian with a background in journalism and clinical nutrition, I bring both evidence-based expertise and clear, compassionate communication to every client interaction. My years as a clinical dietitian at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital—working with adult, perinatal, and pediatric populations—taught me that nutrition is as much about support and understanding as it is about science. Today, in my private practice, I combine that professional excellence with deep empathy to guide individuals and families through the powerful transition into parenthood.
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Photo of Leah Wolofsky - The Dietitian Group, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
The Dietitian Group
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Brooklyn, NY 11219
We are a private nutrition practice accepting most commercial and medicaid insurances. Our practice philosophy is to provide quality, individualized nutrition counseling to all clients, regardless of income. Unlike some other nutrition practices, we do not sell any products, shakes, supplements or gadgets in the office. We provide you with a tailored-approach and customized meal plan. We can help you lose weight, eat more healthfully, gain more energy, manage diabetes, hypertension, IBS, or other conditions.
We are a private nutrition practice accepting most commercial and medicaid insurances. Our practice philosophy is to provide quality, individualized nutrition counseling to all clients, regardless of income. Unlike some other nutrition practices, we do not sell any products, shakes, supplements or gadgets in the office. We provide you with a tailored-approach and customized meal plan. We can help you lose weight, eat more healthfully, gain more energy, manage diabetes, hypertension, IBS, or other conditions.
(718) 866-4883 View (718) 866-4883
Photo of Lana Zinger, Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RD, CHES
Lana Zinger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RD, CHES
Whitestone, NY 11357
Dr. Lana Zinger is a Professor of Nutrition, Public Health and Health Coaching. She is a well known author of many textbooks and peer reviewed research articles as well as a national speaker on health and nutrition. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition from NYU, a M.S in Nutrition and Physiology from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University. She is a Registered Dietitian with many years of clinical experience including obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, eating disorders. She is a Certified LEAP therapist to TEST and treat food intolerances.
Dr. Lana Zinger is a Professor of Nutrition, Public Health and Health Coaching. She is a well known author of many textbooks and peer reviewed research articles as well as a national speaker on health and nutrition. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition from NYU, a M.S in Nutrition and Physiology from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University. She is a Registered Dietitian with many years of clinical experience including obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, eating disorders. She is a Certified LEAP therapist to TEST and treat food intolerances.
(646) 362-7135 View (646) 362-7135
Photo of Elyse Metelka - Elyse Metelka Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Elyse Metelka Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
New York, NY 10019
Elyse Metelka Nutrition is a nutrition private practice located near Columbus Circle in New York City providing nutrition counseling and education. Services include one-on-one nutrition counseling, nutrition presentations to groups, and media writing or appearances. Elyse Metelka, MS, RD, CDN is the owner and founder of Elyse Metelka Nutrition. She is a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist (CDN). Her specialties include eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight and body image issues, health at every size (HAES), sports nutrition, nutrition for figure skaters, and vegetarian nutrition.
Elyse Metelka Nutrition is a nutrition private practice located near Columbus Circle in New York City providing nutrition counseling and education. Services include one-on-one nutrition counseling, nutrition presentations to groups, and media writing or appearances. Elyse Metelka, MS, RD, CDN is the owner and founder of Elyse Metelka Nutrition. She is a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist (CDN). Her specialties include eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight and body image issues, health at every size (HAES), sports nutrition, nutrition for figure skaters, and vegetarian nutrition.
(646) 593-7503 View (646) 593-7503
Photo of Gabbi Berkow, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN, CPT
Gabbi Berkow
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN, CPT
New York, NY 10023
Looking for a one-stop shop for all of your nutrition & exercise needs? I am a Registered Dietitian, exercise specialist, personal trainer, & Pilates instructor who can help you lose weight & keep it off, get in shape, gain muscle, increase energy, improve health, & make peace with your body & food. If you're frustrated with not losing weight, not seeing results, dieting, feeling deprived, or experiencing symptoms that interfere with your quality of life, I offer all of the nutrition & exercise solutions you need! I provide individualized nutrition & exercise recommendations, plans, & support for sustainable results & body confidence that will last a lifetime.
Looking for a one-stop shop for all of your nutrition & exercise needs? I am a Registered Dietitian, exercise specialist, personal trainer, & Pilates instructor who can help you lose weight & keep it off, get in shape, gain muscle, increase energy, improve health, & make peace with your body & food. If you're frustrated with not losing weight, not seeing results, dieting, feeling deprived, or experiencing symptoms that interfere with your quality of life, I offer all of the nutrition & exercise solutions you need! I provide individualized nutrition & exercise recommendations, plans, & support for sustainable results & body confidence that will last a lifetime.
(410) 267-3559 View (410) 267-3559
Photo of Melainie Rogers, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S
Melainie Rogers
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S
New York, NY 10010
Melainie Rogers, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S is a Certified Eating Disorder Registered Dietitian and clinical supervisor. She is the Founder/Executive Director of BALANCE eating disorder treatment center and melainie rogers nutrition, LLC. Her nutritional philosophy is based on the principles of Intuitive Eating & Health At Every Size. She is an adjunct professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies at New York University. Melainie is the author of an online eBook, now in print, entitled Redefining Wellness: The Ultimate Diet-Free Guide. Melainie offers a clinical supervision group to dietitians & healthcare professionals.
Melainie Rogers, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S is a Certified Eating Disorder Registered Dietitian and clinical supervisor. She is the Founder/Executive Director of BALANCE eating disorder treatment center and melainie rogers nutrition, LLC. Her nutritional philosophy is based on the principles of Intuitive Eating & Health At Every Size. She is an adjunct professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies at New York University. Melainie is the author of an online eBook, now in print, entitled Redefining Wellness: The Ultimate Diet-Free Guide. Melainie offers a clinical supervision group to dietitians & healthcare professionals.
(212) 645-6903 View (212) 645-6903
Photo of Shana Maleeff - FoodandFitnessPro, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN
FoodandFitnessPro, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
I specialize in weight loss and transformation, helping people to boost their metabolism, increase energy, improve sleep, increase confidence, and look and feel better. I also have 16+ years of experience working with diabetes, prediabetes, PCOS, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fitness/sports nutrition, GI disorders, and more. I individualize meal plans and programs to fit your lifestyle and preferences and get you the results you are looking for. I use tools like metabolic testing and body fat testing to gain further insights into your unique physiology to individualize your program and goals.
I specialize in weight loss and transformation, helping people to boost their metabolism, increase energy, improve sleep, increase confidence, and look and feel better. I also have 16+ years of experience working with diabetes, prediabetes, PCOS, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fitness/sports nutrition, GI disorders, and more. I individualize meal plans and programs to fit your lifestyle and preferences and get you the results you are looking for. I use tools like metabolic testing and body fat testing to gain further insights into your unique physiology to individualize your program and goals.
(516) 441-9013 View (516) 441-9013
Photo of Sunny Bozymski, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN
Sunny Bozymski
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN
New York, NY 10005
Sunny is the founder and lead nutritionist at Solis Nutrition, LLC. With an extensive background in clinical nutrition, behavioral health, and wellness counseling, Sunny is devoted to helping her patients feel their best.
Sunny is the founder and lead nutritionist at Solis Nutrition, LLC. With an extensive background in clinical nutrition, behavioral health, and wellness counseling, Sunny is devoted to helping her patients feel their best.
(347) 745-8333 View (347) 745-8333
Photo of Lauren Minchen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDN
Lauren Minchen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDN
New York, NY 10016
Lauren is committed to offering you nutritional guidance and meal support on your journey to optimal wellness. She will work with you to develop a personalized nutrition and menu plan that addresses your needs and works with your lifestyle. Lauren's nutrition counseling sessions include analysis of current meal patterns, lifestyle factors, medical diagnoses, medication regimen, food allergies and preferences, and your personal wellness goals. And her culinary services make achieving your health goals even easier. If you want to begin taking the right steps to achieve optimal health, contact Lauren to discuss what works for you.
Lauren is committed to offering you nutritional guidance and meal support on your journey to optimal wellness. She will work with you to develop a personalized nutrition and menu plan that addresses your needs and works with your lifestyle. Lauren's nutrition counseling sessions include analysis of current meal patterns, lifestyle factors, medical diagnoses, medication regimen, food allergies and preferences, and your personal wellness goals. And her culinary services make achieving your health goals even easier. If you want to begin taking the right steps to achieve optimal health, contact Lauren to discuss what works for you.
(646) 863-5398 View (646) 863-5398
Photo of Andie Stone, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Andie Stone
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
White Plains, NY 10603
Hello there! My name is Andie and I am a registered dietitian specializing in intuitive eating, eating disorders and disordered eating, pediatric nutrition, and general nutrition and wellness. My personalized approach to nutrition focuses on meeting clients wherever they're currently at and working collaboratively towards goals- whatever those might be! I'm passionate about empowering individuals to understand their bodies' needs and develop habits that allow them to nourish themselves confidently, for life. Progress > perfection!
Hello there! My name is Andie and I am a registered dietitian specializing in intuitive eating, eating disorders and disordered eating, pediatric nutrition, and general nutrition and wellness. My personalized approach to nutrition focuses on meeting clients wherever they're currently at and working collaboratively towards goals- whatever those might be! I'm passionate about empowering individuals to understand their bodies' needs and develop habits that allow them to nourish themselves confidently, for life. Progress > perfection!
(914) 534-3971 View (914) 534-3971
Postpartum Nutrition Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is postpartum nutrition?
Postpartum nutrition refers to the dietary practices and consumption of specific foods during the postpartum period, when the mother is recovering from childbirth and breastfeeding. Proper nutrition during this time is essential and can help replenish nutrients lost during childbirth, aid in healing, and ensure an adequate milk supply for the baby. Nutrition professionals specializing in postpartum nutrition can provide personalized consultation, helping new mothers identify the best foods for recovery and breastfeeding. They can also offer practical advice on adjusting eating habits to fit into the new routine of caring for a newborn.

Why is nutrition important during the postpartum period?
A healthy and balanced diet during the postpartum period is essential for both recovery from childbirth and supporting breastfeeding. Consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, is crucial during this time. Additionally, breastfeeding women burn an extra 300-500 calories per day on average, so it’s important for them to consume enough calories to meet this increased demand. Key nutrients such as iodine, choline, and iron are particularly important during the postpartum period, as they play vital roles in maternal health and infant development. To ensure all nutrient requirements are met, doctors may recommend dietary supplements to help women get enough essential nutrients during the postpartum period.

What foods should I avoid postpartum?
Nutrition experts generally advise women to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and high-sugar foods during the postpartum period. It's also recommended that postpartum mothers avoid foods that may contain high levels of harmful chemicals, such as certain fish like mackerel, swordfish, and tuna, which can contain high mercury levels that may negatively affect a newborn's development if passed through breastmilk. Additionally, foods with strong smells and flavors, such as garlic, are often discouraged as they may cause the baby to reject breastfeeding due to taste preferences.

What diet is best for breastfeeding mothers?
For breastfeeding mothers, a well-rounded and nutritious diet is essential to support both the mother's health and the baby's growth and development. In general, it is recommended that breastfeeding mother's focus on consuming a balanced diet that contains whole grains, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and lean protein sources. In particular, ensuring that one is getting enough protein can be critical to ensuring sufficient breast milk supply. Sources of such protein include dairy products, lean meats, eggs, nuts and seeds, and beans. Additionally, certain fish that are low in mercury, like salmon, bluefish, and bass, are particularly beneficial, as they provide omega-3 fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which supports healthy infant brain development.