Food For thought...

A Guide to Healthy Fish Eating- Mercury Avoidance

Fish is an important part of a healthy diet. They are low in calories and an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, some fresh fish may have high levels of mercury which, consumed in large doses, can cause significant health problems. Since mercury is a neurotoxin it can damage the brain and nervous system. Developing brains (of fetuses and young children) are most susceptible. Here are some tips to help you enjoy fish as part of a healthy diet and reduce your risk of consuming too much mercury.

Green Light (these fish are safest): These may be consumed 2-3 times a week.

Wild Alaskan Salmon

Oysters

Shrimp

Fresh rainbow trout

Fresh water fish from low contaminated waters (check your local advisory)

Red Light (these fish are high in mercury): These should be limited to no more than 1 time/week.

Canned tuna, crab or cod

King Mackeral

Bass

Orange Roughy

Pike

Swordfish

Shark

Tile Fish

Fresh Tuna

Freshwater fish from contaminated waters (check your local advisory)

Pregnant women and children should limit these to no more than once a month to avoid exposure to contaminants.

The National listing of fish and wildlife advisories is a database that includes all available information describing state, tribal and federally-issued fish consumption advisories in the United States for the 50 states and the District of Columbia.

To contact your local advisory:

 http://www.epa.gov/ost/fish