Some of these chemicals build up in the fish over time, and these chemicals can cause harm to people who eat them. It is important to keep your exposure to these chemicals as low as possible. Illinois issues a fish advisory to help you to plan what sport fish to eat as well as how often they can be eaten. The advisory is not intended to discourage you from eating fish, but should be used as a guide to eating fish low in contaminants. When properly prepared, fish provide many health benefits.
Many doctors suggest eating a half pound of fish each week to help prevent heart disease.
You can get the health benefits of fish and reduce your exposure to chemicals by following the guidelines in the fish advisory. Health Risks Eating contaminated fish does not necessarily mean that you will get sick. However, over time, harmful levels of PCBs and mercury can build up in your body in your body without you knowing it. This is of special concern if you are pregnant or are nursing a baby. Mercury causes problems with the nervous system that can lead to learning difficulties in children.