The Mercury Poisoning Foods You Should Know About

When it comes to fish and shellfish, there's a certain type of mercury that you should be aware of - methylmercury. This toxic substance can cause developmental delays in babies and serious health issues if consumed in large amounts. But how common is mercury poisoning? And what foods are at risk?

Methylmercury: The Silent Killer

Methlymercury is particularly harmful to fetuses, making it essential for pregnant women to be cautious about the types of fish they eat. This toxic substance can build up in the body over time, leading to serious health issues if consumed in large amounts.

According to Navya Mysore, M.D., a primary-care physician specializing in women's health at One Medical, cases of mercury poisoning are rare, but it's still an important issue to address. 'Mercury toxicity isn't exactly unheard of,' she says, noting that high levels of mercury in blood can be found in 5 to 10 percent of Americans.

Who is at Risk?

Those whose work involves exposure to elemental mercury, such as coal mining or working in a factory that manufactures products containing mercury (e.g., thermometers, barometers, dental fillings), are more likely to be affected. However, the majority of people aren't at risk of this type of exposure.

Less Common Sources of Exposure

Another less common source of exposure is elemental mercury, which occurs through inhaling vaporized mercury - not eating fish. This can happen in industries that use mercury-containing products or during industrial accidents.

Foods to Avoid

Some types of fish and shellfish are higher in mercury than others. Larger fish like shark and swordfish tend to have higher levels of mercury because they live longer and are higher on the food chain. According to Jagdish Khubchandani, Ph.D., a professor of community health at Ball State University, 'Generally, larger fish-like shark and swordfish-are higher in mercury.'

What You Can Do

While it's not necessary to avoid seafood altogether, it's essential to know which types of fish can raise your risk. Here are some tips:

* Eat a variety of fish to minimize exposure to high levels of mercury

* Avoid eating large predatory fish like shark and swordfish

* Check local advisories about the safety of fish caught in your area

By being aware of these risks, you can enjoy seafood while minimizing your exposure to mercury poisoning.

Mercury poisoning may not be a common occurrence, but it's still an important issue to address. By knowing which types of fish are high in mercury and taking steps to minimize exposure, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from this toxic substance. Remember, when it comes to seafood, knowledge is power - so take the time to learn more about the risks and rewards!

Mercury poisoning foods