Mercury and Fish

For years Americans have been concerned about the effects of mercury on their health and the health of their children. The common belief is that Americans get mercury from the fish they consume in their diets. It has been long recommended, by health professionals, that pregnant women should avoid consuming large amounts of fish due to the possible mercury. A recent study is showing different results. Research conducted by the University of Bristol has concluded that only about 7% the mercury in our bodies come from fish consumption. Dietary choices contribute to only 17% of the total blood mercury levels. Other foods that contribute to our blood mercury levels are herbal teas and alcohols. The new research also shows that children of mothers that ate fish during pregnancy have better eyesight and higher IQs later in life. While more research is likely to be done on this topic, there are known nutrients in fish such as, omega-3 fatty acids. Fish recommendations are likely to be adjusted as more research is done.