A recent study has linked exposure to mercury in the prenatal period to attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) in children.
For the study researchers looked at a group of infants born between 1993 and 1998. They compared ADHD behaviour in the children at age 8 with:- Maternal fish intake in pregnancy
- Maternal hair mercury levels in the last month of pregnancy
The study showed that children whose mothers were exposed to low level mercury in the prenatal period may be at greater risk for ADHD. The study also found that eating fish during the prenatal period did not put child at risk for the disorder.
The mercury found in fish is a concern of public health officials, who see it as a health risk. Pregnant women have been cautioned on their use during pregnancy and guidelines set on the kind and amount that could be considered safe.
Fish is a healthy alternative to animal meat which has been linked to some cancers. It is recommended that at least two servings of fish per week be part of a healthy eating plan.
Certain types of fish are rich in omega-3, a nutrient necessary to prevent cardiovascular disease. It is wise that pregnant women get the recommended fish intake in their diet, rather than omit it because of the presence of mercury.
To read more on the study
Click Here.
