Is That Sushi Safe to Eat?
 According to recent studies, 1.4 million people have elevated levels of mercury in their blood, mainly from eating certain types of fish. And this is just in New York alone. The study showed that New York Asians, women and those of high income had the highest level of mercury. It seems that sushi is to blame. Officials have found that mercury levels in high-grade tuna, swordfish and yellowtail among other varieties, are much higher than other species of fish such as salmon or cod. The fact is that all fish contain trace amounts of mercury, but these so called mercury fish contain alarmingly high levels due to their larger size. Larger fish are usually older, which means they have more time to accumulate toxins such as mercury; they are also usually higher on the food chain, consuming other fish, which adds to their high mercury count. Mercury is an element, which occurs naturally; it can be found in the air, water and food. Humans accumulate mercury through food. Fish take up mercury from the water and as they feed. This form of mercury called methylmercury is more toxic; it binds to their tissues as it is absorbed through their gills and through their digestive tracks. Generally, mercury poses little risk to adults; however, it can increase the risk of neurological damage in fetuses and infants whose mothers have passed on mercury accumulated in their bloodstream via breast-feeding or during pregnancy. Mercury can have a harmful effect on adults if they accumulate a significant amount in their bloodstream; too much mercury can result in damage to the kidneys and the brains. Mercury fish shouldn't scare consumers off fish completely, however. Fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to produce enormous health benefits. In fact, fish have been shown to be an important factor in the diet of many long-lived peoples of the world. It is important to note that studies show that sushi grade bluefin tuna have a significantly higher level of mercury than canned tuna. The fact is that these types of fish, larger, predatory fish such as bluefin tuna and swordfish and shark should be eaten in limited quantities. Pregnant or nursing women should stay away from consuming these mercury fish, but it need not be banned entirely. There are many fish that we should eat regularly; these are incredibly healthy and practically mercury free. They include anchovies, crab, crawfish, flounder, haddock, perch, salmon, sole, shrimp, trout, scallops and mackerel among many others. The fact is, only certain types of more expensive sushi are potentially dangerous; when consumed in moderation, there is little risk to your health. Alaska is home to an abundant variety of seafood, and offers some of the purest marine, freshwater, and upland habitats on the planet. From the clear crystal waters comes seafood that is delicious and healthy. Alaskan seafood is low in fat but big on flavor and Omega-3 oils. You can study thousands of pages of nutritional research. Or, simply observe the amazing health and longevity of people in countries where seafood is the most important part of their diet. Either way, Alaska seafood is as healthy as it is delicious. Are you are looking for a meal that is low in saturated fat, filled with nutrients and packed with good heart healthy Omega-3s oils? Then you should start with Alaska Seafood. http://www.alaskaseafood.org Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allie_Moxley |
