What are the concerns about mercury levels in fish?
Mercury is toxic and large amounts of it can harm developing fetuses. The question is whether most fish contain harmful levels of mercury. There is much controversy on this subject with some groups stating that there is no proof that the levels of mercury in most fish are harmful. Others are more cautious in the amount of fish they recommend for pregnant women.. Some experts recommend that pregnant women avoid certain fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish because they contain high levels of mercury. What are the benefits of eating fish? There is a great deal of concern that pregnant women will avoid eating fish and thus be deprived of its many benefits. For example, one study points out the beneficial role fish plays in the health of the developing fetus. In addition it found that children of mothers who ate fish at least once a week had higher levels of language development and social activity. Another study indicated the role fish plays in the psychological health
