Guidelines to Avoid Eating Fish High in Mercury Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again. × Search search POPULAR SEARCHES SUGGESTED LINKS Join AARP for just $9 per year when you sign up for a 5-year term. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. Leaving AARP.org Website You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Not All Seafood Is Created Equal

Healthwise some kinds are definitely better than others

Salmon, herring and some types of tuna offer high levels of omega-3s. Istock (such as nuts and seeds) was associated with about a 10 percent lower risk of fatal heart attacks overall. People with the highest blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids had about a 25 percent lower risk of fatal heart attack, compared with people with the lowest levels. Other studies have shown similar health benefits, and the U.S. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) even offers suggesting adults eat two servings of seafood per week. But not all kinds of fish offer the same levels of omega-3 benefits, and some come with high risk of mercury contamination. Fortunately, there are numerous federal guidelines and resources to help you choose the best health options. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. According to the , the omega-3 content of fish varies widely. Cold-water fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring and sardines, contain high amounts of LC omega-3s. Fish with a lower fat content, such as bass, tilapia, cod and shellfish, contain lower levels.

Some fish can do harm

Mercury should also be a concern for frequent fish eaters. The naturally occurring heavy metal is primarily released into the environment by the burning of fossil fuels, according to the (EPA). When humans eat contaminated fish, they ingest the mercury that has accumulated in it, which can have negative health consequences. While moderate consumption may be OK, high exposure can damage key organs. Vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women, infants and young children, are particularly at risk.
The EPA and the Food and Drug Administration offer with these three categories: Best choices: (1 to 2 servings per week) include salmon, canned light tuna and herringGood choices: (1 serving per week) include halibut, carp and white tunaChoices to avoid: (those with the highest mercury levels) include marlin, shark and swordfish
The U.S. Agriculture Department’s website also provides tips on how to choose seafood that is both low in mercury and — the ultimate combination to get the best health benefits out of your maritime meal. AARP Membership — $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. AARP VALUE & MEMBER BENEFITS See more Health & Wellness offers > See more Flights & Vacation Packages offers > See more Finances offers > See more Health & Wellness offers > SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS