Is today’s fish safe to eat?The question shouldn’t be if you should eat fish, the question should be how much?Seafood is a key source of heart-healthy, lean protein, of which everyone should consume two servings a week. Not only is most seafood low in fat, it is high in
protein. The varieties that are higher in fat contain heart healthy fats that are actually good for you. These fats are called omega-3 fatty acids and have been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack by 36% and lessen depression in adults, and may also play a crucial role in infant’s brain development. So, whether you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, raising a child, or just trying to improve your own overall diet, adding a couple servings of seafood is a must.
One thing to make a note of, though, is the mercury content of some fish. Rumors have been swirling about the mercury content of tuna, and how we should avoid eating it. Over time, overconsumption could be cause for concern since it can lead to developmental delays or cognitive problems for kids; and cause memory loss, unexplainable fatigue, and cardiovascular disease for adults. But, moderate consumption is healthy, and even recommended.For the most part, the pros outweigh the cons when eating seafood. Here is a list of safe, and not-so-safe, varieties when planning your next menu.
What's safest for our oceans — and for you, when it comes to mercury and PCBs:Best for you and the environment: - Catfish (U.S.)
- Arctic char
- Halibut (Pacific)
- Wild Alaskan salmon
- Soft-shell clams, mussels, oysters, shrimp, and bay scallops (farmed)
- Tilapia (U.S.)
- Albacore (U.S. or Canadian) and yellowfin tuna (U.S. Atlantic troll/pole caught)
- Striped bass (farmed)
- Rainbow trout (farmed)
- Mackerel (Atlantic)
- Mahimahi (U.S. troll/pole caught)
- Dungeness or stone crab
Worst for you and the environment: - Chilean sea bass
- Flounder (Atlantic)
- Grouper
- Red snapper
- Cod (Atlantic)
- Monkfish
- Halibut (Atlantic)
- Swordfish (imported)
- Salmon (farmed or Atlantic)
- Mahimahi (imported)
- Shrimp (imported)
- Bluefin tuna or bigeye/yellowfin (imported longline)
If you are not a seafood lover, you can still get the healthy benefits of the omega-3 fatty acids they possess by supplementing your diet with capsules or oils sold in a bottle. Always seek out a reputable manufacturer and retailer. Try I-supplements.com for a very competative price and huge selection. You would also avoid the mercury from eating the flesh of the fish this way too. Which ever way you choose to consume your “seafood”, just make sure you get it in. It could keep you around longer, and keep you healthier along the way.
Julie Riggs MED RD LD Registered and Licensed Dietician
www.i-supplements.com
Julie Riggs has been teaching fitness and nutrition skills to every population, from NFL players to the elderly, pre and post-natal moms to professional bodybuilders for her entire career. As a writer and consultant for www.i-supplements.com and as a registered dietician, personal trainer, and mom of three Julie brings real life perspective to the every day person's fitness and nutritional concerns.
