What fish should I have daily?
You likely already know that you should consume fish twice every week. Fish is a lean, nutritious source of protein, and the oily varieties, such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel, provide the heart- and brain-healthy omega-3 fats you’ve likely heard you should be consuming.
Government dietary standards suggest that individuals consume fish twice each week. We also know that fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for both the heart and the brain. But is it safe to consume fish daily? In an article published on Today.com on August 30, 2015, professor of epidemiology and nutrition Eric Rimm states, “For most people, it’s good to eat fish every day,” adding, “It’s obviously healthier to eat fish every day than beef every day.” While it may be safe to consume fish on a daily basis, Rimm adds it is still unclear if there are any additional health benefits to doing so.
- The majority of scientific research does not examine everyday usage,” he argues.
- However, several studies have indicated that people who consume it a few times each week have a decreased risk of fatal heart attacks than those who do not.
- There are a few exceptions, warns Rimm.
- Pregnant women and young children should avoid bigger fish with longer lifespans, such as swordfish and tuna, since they may contain greater amounts of pollutants, such as mercury.
There are other environmental factors to consider, such as the possibility of overfishing specific species. “Even to encourage people to eat fish twice a week, we need to increase fish farming,” says Rimm, noting that some farmed fish can be more nutritious than wild fish.
Why should you not consume fish daily?
While there are nutritional benefits to consuming fish, there are also potential risks. Fish can absorb toxins from the water and the food they consume. Over time, toxins such as mercury and PCBs can accumulate in their bodies. Mercury and PCBs in high concentrations can harm the brain and nervous system.