Fish And Mercury – What You Need to Know
Fish provides a heart-healthy source of protein and contains a host of nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12. The specter of mercury poisoning looms over anyone considering making fish a staple part of their diet. Do you know the facts?
What are the risks with Mercury?
In 2004 the U.S. Department of Health stated: For most people, the risk from mercury by eating fish and shellfish is not a health concern.1 While no exact risks are known, consumers are advised to be cautious, moderate consumption, and adjust preferences for fish with lower mercury values. Ideally no one wants to eat mercury because it is a neurotoxin thought to impair brain functioning and development. The amount of mercury anyone can handle depends on their weight. This is why the Department of Health warns pregnant women and children from consuming high mercury fish.
What kinds of fish have high amounts of Mercury?In 2004 the U.S. Department of Health stated: For most people, the risk from mercury by eating fish and shellfish is not a health concern.1 While no exact risks are known, consumers are advised to be cautious, moderate consumption, and adjust preferences for fish with lower mercury values. Ideally no one wants to eat mercury because it is a neurotoxin thought to impair brain functioning and development. The amount of mercury anyone can handle depends on their weight. This is why the Department of Health warns pregnant women and children from consuming high mercury fish.
Mercury exists in our waters and subsequently in fish eat. The concentration of mercury in local-waters varies, and therefore, the content in any given fish. Due to bioamplification, fish at the top of the predator chain are far more likely to contain high amounts of mercury than smaller fish.2
o How Do You Know What to Buy?
The following lists give you a shopping guide for what fish to buy. Feel free to print them out. The EPA also publishes these figures in a printable wallet card available here.
Fish is good for me, so based on my weight, how much fish can I safely eat?
The amount of mercury any person can safely consume depends on their weight, and whether or not they are pregnant. Gotmercury.org has a useful mercury calculator that tells you how much fish you can safely eat based on your weight. As with any food, it is important to moderate your intake.
What about canned fish?
The amount of mercury in fish is not affected by canning. In general, avoid high sodium or oil-packed canned fish. 3
Are fish in my local lakes, ponds, and streams safe?
Mercury exists in the ocean and in our local waters. You can use the EPA’s national database to find mercury levels for particular lakes and streams in your area.
