Fish and Tips: What You Need To Know

Many consumers eat fish to gain the health benefits from the omega-3 fatty acids, which decreases heart attacks, strokes, and cholesterol. However, eating fish comes with a catch. Despite the benefits, some fish has been found to contain high levels of mercury, polychlorinated bipenyls (PCBs), and other dangerous chemicals. Mercury can be toxic to the brain, heart and nervous system, especially in children and infants, and PCBs are a cancer-causing industrial chemical that is found in our waterways. Although these chemicals are dangerous, researchers believe that the benefits of eating fish outweigh the risks.

The FDA and EPA clarify that everyone, including pregnant women, should eat a variety of fish and shellfish that are low in mercury at least twice a week. So how do you know which fish is safe to eat?Nutrition experts explain that wild and farmed salmon is the best source of omega-3’s, however other fish, like mahi mahi, tilapia and cod, also contain health benefits.

For more healthy options, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a Seafood Watch Pocket Guide to help you make in formed decisions about the fish in the region where you live or travel. If you enjoy sushi, they also offer a guide to help consumers make ocean-friendly choices. For cooking at home on a budget, the Food and Water Watch has a guide of recipes that are environmentally conscious, healthy and cheap! For more healthy options, the Monterey Bay Aquarium offers a Seafood Watch Pocket Guide to help you make in formed decisions about the fish in the region where you live or travel. If you enjoy sushi, they also offer a guide to help consumers make ocean-friendly choices. For cooking at home on a budget, the Food and Water Watch has a guide of recipes that are environmentally conscious, healthy and cheap!

For more information about environmental toxins in fish and other consumer products, visit the Environmental Working Group.