I thought that eating tuna was good for you. High in omega-3 fats, nutritionists recommended at least 2 servings of tuna, salmon, herring, sardines, and other cold water fish. Hold back on the tuna, at least for now. Two different studies have found high levels of mercury in canned tuna. A Japanese study looked at mercury levels in the nine researchers at the beginning of the study. After consuming less than one can for the entire week of the cheapest tuna available, their mercury levels rose nine-fold after one week. A month later, they replicated the test, this time using the most expensive albacore tuna. Expect a better result? Nope-mercury levels rose a whopping 20 percent! Mercury is especially harmful to women and children if consumed regularly. Mercury is a neurotoxin, interfering with the brain and nervous system.
In another study at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, researchers found unsafe mercury levels in more than half of the 302 cans of tuna sampled. They recommended low mercury level species such as pollock, slamon, and tilapia.
Activity trumps the BMI! According to Consumer Reports On Health, an article in the February 2010 Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, carrying a few extra pounds may help people live longer if they stay active. Researchers followed nearly 10,000 people in their 70’s and found that those with a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 30 were less likely to die over a 10-year period than those with a BMI under 25 or over 30. I think you know where I’m going here…..
Stay well, John R Blilie, M.S.