Dangers Of Eating Excessive Fish, Know The Risks And Safe Ways To Consumption

JAKARTA - Fish are often touted as one of the healthyest foods because they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, non-fat protein, and important vitamins.

Regular consumption of fish is beneficial for heart health, brain function, and overall body fitness. But behind the benefits, excessive eating fish can also pose a hidden risk.

Some types of fish can contain high mercury, increase the risk of food poisoning, and cause side effects from excess omega-3. In some people, fish can also trigger allergies or contribute to weight gain if cooked in an unhealthy way.

"One portion of canned tuna per week (80 grams for adults, 40 grams for children) is still safe, but the risk increases when consumed more frequently or in more quantities," the Scientific Reports study reads, quoted from the Times of India page.

This means that understanding of this side effect is very important so that we can consume fish wisely, safely, and remain within reasonable limits. The following is the risk of eating excessive fish and a safe way to consume them.

1. Excess Mercury

One of the most researched risks is mercury exposure. Large marine fish such as tuna, sharks, king magazine, and passwordfish often contain high mercury levels due to accumulation in the food chain. If consumed excessively, mercury can accumulate in the body and cause health problems.

The excess of mercury can damage the nervous system and cause neurological problems such as tremors, headaches, difficulty concentrating, and mood disorders such as depression. In children, mercury can inhibit brain development. Pregnant women are also highly advised to avoid fish with high mercury because this substance can pass through the placenta and affect fetal development.

2. Food Toxic Risk

Fish are easily contaminated with bacteria, parasites, or toxins if not handled properly. Consumption of stale, raw, or undercooked fish can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and fever.

Raw fish dishes, such aserates or chassimi, increase the risk of infection, especially for people with weak immune system. Therefore, cooking fish to cooked is the best way to reduce this risk.

3. Allergy Problem

Fish allergies are one of the most common food allergies in the world. The reaction can be mild such as itching or rashes, but it can also be heavy that causes life-threatening anaphylaxis.

According to the allergy expert, people with fish allergies should avoid being fully the best choice. For those who are not allergic, consuming is not excessive, it is still recommended that the immune system is not too stimulated.

4. Excess Omega-3

Omega-3 is very useful, but excessive consumption can also cause side effects. A study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that too high levels of omega-3 can dilute blood and increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people who take blood dilution drugs. Blood pressure that is too low and fatigue can also appear in some people.

5. Risk of Weight Increase

Fish are actually low in fat, but the way they cook is often a problem. Fried food, curry with lots of coconut milk, or thick flour-coated fish can add calories and saturated fat. If consumed continuously, weight can rise, cholesterol increases, and the risk of heart disease increases.

Safe Tips For Consuming Fish

In order to stay healthy without losing the benefits of fish, here are some practical guidelines:

- Limit fish consumption to 2'3 servings per week.

- Choose low mercury fish such as salmon, sardines, tilapia, or trout.

- Cook the fish until cooked perfectly to kill bacteria and parasites.

- Pregnant women, breastfeeding, and children should avoid high-fish mercury.

- Use a healthy cooking method such as steaming, roasting, or cooking rather than frying.