Is mercury in fish dangerous?
Mercury is present in numerous environmental sources. It enters the food supply as organic mercury (methylmercury). Fish, especially the larger predator fish, concentrate the mercury in their bodies as they consume smaller creatures. The highest levels are seen in swordfish, king mackerel, shark, and albacore (white) tuna. Mercury exposure has been linked to neurologic problems in the developing fetus, but the effects on health in adults are less certain. Studies on the effects of mercury on blood pressure and heart disease have been inconsistent.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online Plus (HHO+) to unlock expert-backed health insights, personalized tools, and exclusive resources to feel your best every day.
Here’s what you get with your HHO+ membership:
- Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
- 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
- Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
- In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
- Interactive features like videos and quizzes
- Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources
I’d like to subscribe to HHO+ for $4.99/month to access expert-backed content to help make smart, informed decisions about my well-being.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
