Fish consumption during pregnancy could lead to smarter babies
Good for expectant mothers if mercury level remains low.
21/06/05 For years medical experts have argued, as fish can be harmful as well as healthy, and what advice to give people, particularly pregnant women.
A new study by Harvard University doctors has to some extent settled the debate by concluding that pregnant women can boost their baby's intelligence by eating fish a couple of times a week, but only if they avoid varieties with large concentrations of mercury.
Fish which is full of omega-3 fatty acids, helps young brains develop and seems to protect against heart disease. But some of it is tainted by mercury, a potent neurotoxin that interferes with the building of brains.
Almost all fish contain traces of mercury, but larger marine species such as swordfish, shark and albacore tuna accumulate the highest levels.
Although mercury can harm adults by affecting the memory, causing the hair to fall out and possibly increasing the risk of heart disease, fetuses are the most vulnerable because neurological effects have been found at low levels.
The report is published online in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.
