Fish Consumption and Mercury Levels

Fish contain omega-3 fatty acids.

Let's dive right in: fish are incredibly nutritious and are an active source of high-quality protein. This is because they contain essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) that support your digestive tract. While there are health benefits for fish, you must control your fish intake every week.

Federal Dietary Guidelines recommend at least 8 ounces of seafood (less for young children) per week based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

How does fish consumption affect your gut health?

Fish such as salmon and tuna are excellent for your digestive tract. Omega-3 fatty acids play a significant role in a healthy bowel function by working to keep digestion flowing smoothly.

In addition, the iron in fish is important in the diets of pregnant women and women who may become pregnant. The nutrients can be passed to their baby by eating the right fish. However, keep in mind that it's best to avoid fish known to be high in mercury.

Which fish should I eat or avoid to sustain my health?

Since salmon, sardines, and tuna are high in omega-3 fatty acids, they aid digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut. Contrarily, consumption of fish high in mercury may result in severe or fatal effects on your kidney, lungs, digestive tract, or cardiovascular system.

The following are the five primary fish to avoid to decrease your exposure to dietary mercury:

1. Swordfish

2. Shark

3. Tilefish

4. King Mackerel

5. Bigeye Tuna

Here's a diagram displaying the best, good, and worst fish options. Which category of fish do you consume the most?

Healthy fish help your gut diversity.

Traits of Spoiled Fish

How can you tell the difference between fresh and rotten fish? Firstly, spoiled fish has an unpleasant smell, is covered with sticky slime, and is grayish-brown in appearance. When inspecting food, notice that old fish does not 'bounce' and is soft to touch. In contrast, fresh fish should be first to touch.

Beware of Salmonella

While fish can be incredibly nutritious, eating raw or undercooked fish can result in serious food poisoning. Salmonella is a prevalent type of food poisoning from bacteria that causes gastrointestinal distress.

The overall incidence of Salmonella was 7.2% for imports and 1.3% for domestic seafood. Nearly 10% of imports and 2.8% of domestic raw seafood were positive for Salmonella.

Check out this video from the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) "Benefits and Risks of Eating Fish"

What if I don't eat fish but still want the omega-3 benefits?

Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in a variety of nuts, seeds, and many plant-based foods and oils. Likewise, they are not the same as the EPA and DHA found in fish and eggs.

The other source of omega-3s is through the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which can be found in soybean, canola, and flaxseed oils. Green vegetables such as kale and spinach also contain ALA.

Here are some plant-based alternatives to consider:

• Flaxseeds

• Mixed greens

• Canola oil

• Walnuts

• Soybeans and tofu

How about Omega-3 Supplements?

DHA and EPA acids are found in omega-3 fish oil and can improve your cardiovascular health. Regular doses of fish oil supplements may have health benefits, but consult your doctor to determine whether they're the right fit for you.

The American Heart Association stated that omega-3 fish oil supplements prescribed by a clinician may prevent death from heart disease.

Omega-3 fatty acids are vital nutrients that aid in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.

How much Omega-3 should I take per day?

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends taking up to 3 grams of fish oil daily to be safe. Do not take more than the considered amount without first consulting your doctor.

Bottom Line

Overall, fish is rich in calcium, filled with omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins such as D and B2 (riboflavin). Eating fish or taking fish oil is beneficial for the heart and digestive system. Nevertheless, be cautious of bad fish by observing the surface thin layer.

While foods are the finest source of omega-3s, fish oil vitamins are also available for individuals who do not enjoy fish. To receive the health benefits you need, ask your doctor for the recommended dose of fish oil supplements.