FDA Changing Stand On Fish Consumption For Pregnant Women, Kids

dBTechno
Published December 13, 2008

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may be changing their stand on how they feel about fish consumption for pregnant women and young kids. The FDA has maintained for quite some time that they believe that fish consumption should be limited for pregnant women and young kids. This is due to high levels of mercury which could possibly be found in the fish. This mercury could lead to health problems for young children as well as the fetus itself. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has come out this week though and revealed an FDA report in its draft form, which may soon be released. The report reveals that the FDA may be changing their stand on how they feel about fish consumption. The FDA report stated that there are many benefits to fish consumption in adults and children, and that the mercury levels may not actually cause adverse effects. The report stated that the various vitamins and such found in fish may be more beneficial than anything else. This is causing a great deal of controversy as there are people on both sides of the table here. High levels of mercury have been found to be able to cause damage to the nervous system of kids and can lead to developmental problems. This was the reason for the initial recommendation of limited fish consumption.