How does “mercury-contaminated” fish affect your health?
However, some types of fish contain very high levels of mercury, which is a concern for consumer health. Mercury is a heavy metal found in nature, such as in the air, water, and soil.
This metal is released into the environment in many different ways, such as burning coal, volcanic eruptions, etc. As a result, mercury can fall from the air and accumulate in streams, oceans, and become methylmercury in the water.
In today’s world, as environmental pollution is always alarming, the amount of mercury in water is especially high, affecting the fish species living there. Therefore, humans are at risk of exposure to mercury in various ways, not only inhaling mercury vapor through extraction or working in industrial environments, but also through the consumption of fish in their daily diet.
Many cases of mercury exposure occur from eating fish that contain high levels of mercury exceeding the permissible limit. Over time, mercury will cause very high toxicity and serious impact on health, increasing the incidence of neurological and liver diseases, increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, autism, depression, etc.
Which types of fish contain the most mercury?
Mackerel
Did you know that oily fish that have been artificially fattened with hormones to increase weight for profit are considered unclean and potentially contaminated with toxic mercury? Readers should consider this when choosing fish to consume.
Atlantic Salmon
In contrast to wild salmon, Atlantic salmon is classified by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as one of the fish species most likely to have mercury contamination due to its habitat at the ocean floor (where 80% of mercury in the water surface has been destroyed by sunlight).
Besides, they also feed on various types of toxins and microorganisms living in the water. When consuming fish with high levels of mercury like Atlantic salmon, toxins will gradually accumulate in the human body. Long-term consumption can pose a risk of mercury poisoning, causing damage to the oral and dental mucosa, affecting digestion and serious kidney problems.
Catfish
Catfish is a fish that Vietnam has the opportunity to export, increasing its economic value. However, when testing for crystal violet and malachite green in the United States, the results were not as expected. Moreover, the United States lists catfish as one of the fish species that do not guarantee quality and belongs to the 8 most mercury-contaminated fish that readers should be aware of.
Tuna
Tuna is a fish that contains a lot of omega-3, which is good for the development of young children and pregnant women. However, it is a fish with mercury contamination that readers should research before consuming. Tuna in the Atlantic Ocean area is considered safe for readers to choose.
Catfish
Catfish is a fish that is prone to mercury contamination and is considered unclean because they absorb industrial and agricultural waste through water sources.
Which types of fish are best for health?
Research shows that fatty fish containing a lot of omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial for the heart. Omega-3 can also help to reduce the risk of diseases such as stroke and Alzheimer’s.
Good sources of these healthy acids include: Natural salmon, trout, sardines, anchovies, and mackerel.
The levels of mercury in fish vary depending on their habitat and diet. Fish that are particularly prone to mercury contamination include Mackerel, Atlantic Salmon, Catfish, and Tuna. These fish often feed on toxins and microorganisms in the water, and their habitats near the ocean floor or in polluted areas can increase their exposure to mercury.
Yes, it’s important to be mindful of the types of fish you consume. Oily fish that have been artificially fattened with hormones, such as Mackerel, may be considered unclean and potentially contaminated. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies Atlantic Salmon as one of the species most likely to have mercury contamination due to its habitat. It’s advisable to opt for wild salmon instead. Additionally, the United States includes Catfish on its list of fish species that do not guarantee quality regarding mercury levels.
Research suggests that fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids can have beneficial effects on heart health and reduce the risk of stroke and Alzheimer’s. Natural sources of these healthy acids include Salmon, Trout, Sardines, Anchovies, and some types of Mackerel.
Mercury is a naturally occurring heavy metal found in the air, water, and soil. It is released into the environment through various human activities, such as burning coal, and natural processes like volcanic eruptions. Mercury falls from the air and accumulates in bodies of water, where it can be converted into methylmercury, a highly toxic form. Fish absorb mercury as they feed on organisms and water, leading to contamination.
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