Mercury in Fish

Mercury in fish poses a health problem. Fetuses, infants and young children are at greatest risk of harm from mercury, which can damage developing brains and nervous systems. Because mercury in fish is stored in the parts we eat and then is stored in our bodies, as well, women planning to have children should also avoid high-mercury fish well before they become pregnant. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 16 percent of American women of child-bearing age have levels of mercury in their blood high enough to indicate increased chance of harm to their fetuses. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include fatigue, headache, decreased memory and joint pain.

To find out about mercury in fish, mercury levels in fish, which fish to avoid and which are mercury-free fish, read the articles and use the shopping guides linked to below.

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