The EPA recommends young children limit their consumption of fish caught by family and friends to one meal per week. The two main things consumers can do are to eat a variety of fish and seafood rather than concentrating on one species. The FDA also encourages recreational fishers to follow state and local government advisories about which waters to fish. This information is available from the state department of health and is sometimes found in state regulations for fishing, provided when obtaining a fishing license. Eliminating an entire type of food or food group from the diet is generally unwise from a nutritional standpoint.
Fish is an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins and minerals.
In addition, research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids found in certain species of fish help lower the risk of heart disease and ease the pain of arthritis, among other things. There are ways to decrease one s risk of methyl mercury without denying oneself the good taste and health benefits of fish. What s more, FDA acknowledges that seafood is an important part of a balanced diet for pregnant women and those of childbearing age who may become pregnant. In addition, the Association says that research shows a number of benefits from consuming omega-3 fatty acids, found mainly in fatty, cold water fish like tuna, salmon, sardines, mackerel and lake trout. According to the ADA, omega-3 fatty acids help make the blood less sticky, so it flows through blood vessels more easily and is less likely to form clots which can contribute to heart attacks and strokes.