Pollution of the seas, oceans and reefs directly affects the amount of mercury in fish. Radiation in the seas, oil slicks floating on the water and the waste we see in the water every day can all lead to extreme depletion of reserves. Fish and seafood are predicted to become a rarity in the coming years. Mercury pollution is a reality that occurs in all waters around the world, both freshwater and seas and oceans. However, this does not mean that we should stop eating fish, because it is definitely the healthiest food that should definitely be consumed.
The most commonly consumed fish is tuna. It should be especially paid attention to when it comes to mercury ingestion. Of course small quantities for consumption are not harmful.
Among the fish with the highest percentage of mercury that you should avoid, and this is especially true for children and pregnant women are: shark, swordfish, sea trout and the so-called large builder (tilefish), king mackerel.
Fish and seafood that have less mercury are: Spanish mackerel, tuna (most species), lobster, marlin (swordfish type), Chilean brancin, pomegranate …
Fish and seafood that do not have much mercury are: crab, freshwater mackerel, carp, trout, squid, Pacific mackerel, and even less have: cipal, catfish, cod, oysters, herring, sardines, hake, salmon…
Pregnant women should be especially careful when consuming fish. Fish contains nutrients such as omega 3 acids, proteins, vitamins and minerals such as iron. These nutrients are of great importance for every man in general, and especially for pregnant women, because all these nutrients are essential for stimulating the development of the fetus, of course further and the proper development of the child. It is recommended for pregnant women to consume fish with low mercury levels. The recommended dose is 350 to 500 grams of fish per week. It is recommended to eat fish such as salmon, shrimp, tuna but canned, catfish. White tuna should not be consumed too often and not in excess of 170 grams per week.
Water pollution
Mercury is an element that can be found in all water surfaces such as oceans, lakes, seas, and even streams. In these waters, mercury is converted to methylmercury, a neurotoxin found in most fish in smaller quantities. If large amounts of these fish are consumed, methylmercury ends up in the body and can be quite toxic to the nervous system. The fish that are richest in mercury include shark, mackerel and saber. These fish should be avoided for consumption. If river fish, lake or stream fish are consumed, the instruction manual for these water surfaces should be checked. It is especially important for pregnant women not to eat raw fish, as this will make them more susceptible to diseases that can be transmitted through fish.
It is important to be careful when eating fish, just as it is important to eat fish because of the rich nutrients it contains. Attention should be paid to the origin of the fish and the quantities in which it is consumed. Avoid the fish that we have pointed out to you as carriers of quantities of mercury in yourself.
