(30-04-13) Higher mercury levels increase risk of diabetes

by Sandeep Godiyal

(NaturalNews) A new research conducted by the Indiana University School of
Public Health-Bloomington has found that young adults consuming higher levels
of mercury face a higher risk of type 2 diabetes by 65 percent later in life.
Led by the university's epidemiologist Ka He, the study has identified the
consumption of shellfish and fish as the main dietary source of mercury. This
finding poses a complication on nutrition since fish and shellfish are also
known to be an important source of lean protein and nutrients like omega-3 poly-
unsaturated fatty acids and magnesium.

The research
Around 3,875 participants participated in the research. After studying
lifestyle controls and other dietary consumption of magnesium and omega-3 poly-
unsaturated fatty acids, the study was able to establish a connection between
type 2 diabetes risk and mercury levels in both men and women.

According to the study, participants who have higher levels of mercury
practice a healthier lifestyle and perform exercises more regularly, which can
be seen in their lower body mass indexes and smaller waist measurements. The
higher levels of mercury were also attributed to their higher consumption of
fish, which can be an indicator of a healthy diet or a higher socio-economic
status. Being overweight was also identified as one of the risk factors for
type 2 diabetes.

Another important finding from the study includes emphasizing the importance
of choosing the right fish with lower mercury levels such as salmon, catfish
and shrimp. It also pointed out that people should avoid fish with higher
mercury content such as shark and swordfish. Fish consumption guidelines under
the FDA and EPA also include provisions on mercury levels, particularly for
young children, pregnant women, and women of childbearing age.

According to He and the other authors of the research, the study reflects the
overall health impact of eating fish, since it contains both helpful nutrients
and harmful contaminants. They further add that any other study relating to the
nutrients and contaminants in fish should also consider its other components.

Sources for this article include:

http://health.usnews.com

http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mercury/background.html

http://newsinfo.iu.edu/news/page/normal/24058.html

News

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