A Note on The Role of Selenium in Mercury Toxicity

If you’re a fan of fish but concerned about mercury toxicity, there’s some good news – many commonly consumed fish are rich in selenium, which may help prevent the absorption of excess mercury. However, there’s a catch. This doesn’t mean you can indulge in as many high-mercury fish as you like. That said, if you do choose to eat fish with higher mercury content occasionally, consuming enough selenium alongside it might help reduce potential negative effects.

The main takeaway is this: If you’re eating fish high in selenium and low to moderately high in mercury, the overall risk is lower. On the other hand, if you’re consuming fish that’s high in mercury but low in selenium (like shark), it’s best to avoid it or eat it very rarely.

Fish To Eat More Of

This does not mean you have to give up fish altogether, but it highlights the importance of reading labels and knowing where your fish is coming from. Wild-caught Alaskan salmon, Pacific Sardines, and Atlantic mackerel are all high in omega-3s, as well as several other nutrients, and have less of a negative impact on the environment. Other good choices include Albacore tuna that was caught in the US or Canada, Alaska Cod, Arctic Char, Rainbow Trout, among others. The EDF Seafood Selector provides a comprehensive list of the best seafood and fish to eat, including where it should come from and how it should be produced.