People are confused about seafood advice, so here are a few important points on the topic.

1) Seafood advice, like all nutrition advice, should always come from a registered dietitian, doctor, or qualified health organization. NRDC is an environmental group.

2) For the general population, there are no species of fish to avoid. Simply eat a variety of fish at least twice a week, especially oily fish like salmon, tuna, trout, and sardines.

3) The only population that has special seafood advice is women who are or may become pregnant, nursing moms, and young children. For this group, there are just four fish to avoid: shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish.

4) Most Americans, especially pregnant moms, eat far too little fish to reap the health benefits. Limiting or avoiding seafood can contribute to an omega-3 and vitamin D deficiency, so it’s important to aim for at least two servings of fish per week.

For more info on how to get plenty of fish, check out the real-life diet of a registered dietitian (me!) at http://www.blogaboutseafood.com.

Sincerely,
Jennifer McGuire, MS, RD
National Fisheries Institute