Originally published September 12 2005
Experts say Americans should eat more fish, but choose carefully
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Based on studies that show eating fish may reduce the risk of death from heart disease, the American Heart Association recommends Americans eat about two servings of fish per week, but The Duluth News Tribune reports some consumers are confused away from the dish by conflicting reports on which fish are healthy.
The American Heart Association recommends Americans aim for two servings of fish per week.
It's a simple health message, but knowing which types of fish get the green light requires wading into murky waters rife with controversy.
A variety of concerned environmental and culinary groups have issued guides to help consumers choose their fish and seafood wisely, including the popular Seafood Watch, a wallet-size list from the Monterey Bay Aquarium offering "best choices," "good alternatives" and those to "avoid."
For instance, swordfish imported from other countries is on the Seafood Watch list for consumers to avoid.
But in recent years, strict government quotas have helped to replenish swordfish stocks, says Dick Jones, national seafood manager of Whole Foods Markets.
Mercury is a pollutant from power plants that burn fossil fuels, especially coal.
Small fish absorb the methylmercury as they feed on aquatic organisms.
These smaller fish are eaten by the bigger fish, such as swordfish, that can weigh up to 1,000 pounds.
Because high levels of methylmercury may pose a risk to an unborn baby or a young child's developing nervous system, the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency advise pregnant women, nursing mothers, women of childbearing age and young children to avoid eating fish with elevated levels of mercury.
For most people, however, methylmercury appears to carry few health risks if eaten no more than once a week.
The Kansas City Star's recipe for Swordfish with Tomato Basil Caper Sauce is a mild-tasting yet meaty-textured alternative for anyone trying to work more fish dishes into their diet.
Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat.
Add onions, reduce heat to low and cook 10 minutes.
Spray fish with nonstick vegetable cooking spray and sprinkle lightly with salt and generously with pepper.
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