Although fish are known as "brain food" due to their high omega-3 content, research also links them to Alzheimer's disease. Researchers found that this type of meat contains traces of mercury, with certain fish having higher levels of this element than others. Consuming too much of this neurotoxin can strain the brain. Mercury is naturally present in air, water, and soil and is considered a "major public health concern." The World Health Organization explains that even a small amount of this element can lead to "serious" health problems, including memory loss, a key sign of dementia. The World Health Organization also states that people are primarily exposed to this compound when they eat fish and shellfish that contain mercury.
Hussein Abdo, supervising pharmacist at "Medicine Direct," noted, "Certain types of fish have high levels of mercury. Mercury is a neurotoxin found to be a potential cause of cognitive decline in humans exposed to it, so consuming fish high in mercury may contribute to dementia." Fortunately, the significantly increased risk occurs only when consuming a large quantity of high-mercury fish on a regular basis. It is important to recognize which types of fish have high mercury levels to avoid overconsumption.
The relationship between mercury from fish consumption and dementia has been documented through research. A study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine examined data from a 91-year-old man with Alzheimer's disease, who recorded elevated mercury levels due to consuming "high-mercury" fish. While it is known that mercury affects cognitive impairment and causes memory loss, the link between the compound and Alzheimer's disease remains unclear. However, research indicates that mercury might play a supportive role in the development of dementia.
Experts like Dr. Dale Bredesen have also classified mercury as one of the "major contributors" to Alzheimer's disease. In his recent book, Bredesen documented several cases similar to the study of the man who consumed a lot of mercury through fish. Nonetheless, currently, there is not enough research to establish a consistent link.
Moreover, not all fish contain the same level of mercury. Mr. Abdo stated, "It's important to note that fish with high mercury levels are not common species found in stores and restaurants, such as salmon or sardines. Therefore, people should not avoid these types of fish as the proteins, omega-3, and fatty acids they contain are invaluable for our health." He added, "Fish that tend to have high levels of mercury are often predatory saltwater fish, such as swordfish, shark, and mackerel, although some freshwater fish can also contain mercury."
