What is the worry about mercury and fish? Recently the FDA revealed that shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish, and tuna fish contain higher levels of mercury and other harmful metals than do other fish. This is because these fish tend to live a long time before they are caught, thus allowing more pollutants to get into their tissues. These pollutants may be harmful to a developing fetus.
What fish is safe to eat? Salmon has the highest level of DHA (the most important healthy fat) and other omega-3’s, and is one of the least contaminated fish. Tuna (not canned tuna) also has lots of DHA, but may also be more polluted. You CAN eat tuna and the other fish mentioned above, but you should only do so once or twice a month so you don’t overload your system. Do not make any of the contaminated fish a routine part of your diet.
I recommend all pregnant and breastfeeding moms eat fish and eggs several times a week to make sure their developing babies get enough DHA and other omega-3’s. Alternatively, you can take DHA and omega-3 oil capsules available at vitamin stores.
Click here to read more about why DHA is so healthy for infants and children.
Dr. Bob
