Mercury can be harmful to the nervous system at high levels of exposure. Symptoms are generally not apparent until after the baby is born and tend to be quite subtle, such as delays in walking and talking. Most people are not exposed to levels of mercury high enough to be damaging, however research indicates that the unborn fetus may be more sensitive to the effects of mercury from food. The level of mercury differs in different species of fish, however the types of fish mentioned above tend to live longer, are large in size and are at the top of the food chain, therefore they may accumulate higher levels of mercury. This is not to discourage women from eating fish during pregnancy, as fish is a good source of protein, is low in saturated fat, and high in the good omega 3 oils.
Pregnant women can eat as much other fish as they like.
The National Heart Foundation of Australia recommends consuming fish twice a week for cardiovascular health benefits. There are regulations in place that limit the amount of mercury that can be present in fish that is sold. This ensures that the majority of people are not exposed to any health risks from the presence of mercury in fish. Fitness and nutrition for an independant future. To find out more about the book, click here.