If you follow dieting trends at all, then you are probably aware of the many fish-based diets out there. These diets are promoted as both heart healthy and a great way to lose weight. In addition, they are viewed by many as a solution to a nutritional problem: a shortage of omega 3. However, if you are considering adopting some of the more extreme versions out there (such as some version of the Inuit’s cultural diets which consist nearly entirely of fatty fish like tuna and mackerel) then you may want to think again. While it’s a great source of omega 3, the accompanying increase in mercury levels could make you more susceptible to strokes and heart attacks.

In an October 2009 study, the Journal of the American Heart Association revealed new finding that indicate that Inuit from Nunavik are highly exposed to environmental mercury because of their diets, which consist mainly of fish1. As a result, thanks to all that mercury they are far more likely than most to suffer strokes and heart attacks due to their high blood pressure.

Now, I know that you are not likely to eat mackerel or tuna – no matter how delicious – for breakfast, lunch and dinner unless you have no other choice. However, the results of this study do bear consideration if you have recently started taking an omega 3 supplement (many of which are made from tuna or mackerel) or if you are attempting to increase the amount of fish in your diet for health reasons. As a result, you may be exposing yourself to some of the same mercury issues.

If you want to avoid the risk of mercury entirely from fish oil, then most of your omega 3 fatty acids should come from Arctic salmon, which are less likely to contain mercury, or from a (WHO) World Health Organization-approved supplement made only from Arctic salmon and guaranteed tested and toxin free. Molecular optimization of your omega 3 supplement will also improve its effectiveness and eliminate other unpleasant side effects associated with fish oil, such as gas, nausea, and fishy body odor.

To learn more about fish oil supplements approved by both the WHO and representatives from the American College of Toxicology, access www.omega-3.us.

1http://www.nunatsiaqonline.ca/stories/article/742_mercury_poison_in_country_food_could_lead_to_more_strokes_heart_attacks/