Think Before Feeding Children Fish

Some Fish Contain High Levels Of Mercury

If you want to eat healthier, most of us think: eat more fish.

But there's something that may surprise many of you. Some fish that's good for adults can be toxic for children.

While fish may give you all the protein without the fat, there are also high levels of mercury in some fish that are poisonous to children.

Mercury can damage a child's brain, kidneys, and nervous and immune systems.

The big, longer-living predator-type fish have the highest mercury content. This group includes sharks, swordfish and king mackeral. Don't give these fish to children under 5, and don't eat them if you're pregnant or nursing.

Some popular freshwater fish like pike, bass, walleye, and muskie can also have fairly high levels of mercury, so limit these to no more than 2 ounces, or one small serving, per week.

But when it comes to canned tuna, shrimp, salmon, flounder, halibut, and some of the other most popular fishes, you're in luck. The mercury contents of these fish are low enough that as much as 12 ounces, or about three meals, a week won't hurt your children.

Copyright 2002 by Channel4000.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.