Effect of Mercury Levels and Seafood Intake on Cognitive Function in Middle-aged Adults.

Author: Masley SC, Masley LV, Gualtieri CT.

Source: Integrative Medicine.

Year: 2012

Comment:

The authors of this study conclude, "Excessive seafood intake, particularly largemouth fish, elevates Hg levels and causes cognitive dysfunction, especially for mercury levels ≥15 μg/L. Higher N3FA intake initially is associated with improved cognitive function, but rising Hg levels ultimately overwhelm the moderating effect of N3FA intake."

Abstract / Excerpt:

“Little agreement exists as to whether low-level mercury (Hg) exposure causes damage to the central nervous system in adults. Although eating fish is associated with intake of methylmercury, researchers in this field have generally thought that the beneficial effects of a diet rich in long-chain, n-3 fatty acids (N3FA) can outweigh the cognitive neurotoxicity of mercury.
Objective: This study intended to clarify the impact of Hg and intake of seafood on cognition.
Design: The study was a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis.
Setting: The research team performed the study at the Carillon Outpatient Center in St Petersburg, Florida.
Participants: Participants were 384 men and women, primarily corporate executives, who were attending an all-day comprehensive physical evaluation.”

Citation:

Masley SC, Masley LV, Gualtieri CT. Effect of Mercury Levels and Seafood Intake on Cognitive Function in Middle-aged Adults. Integrative Medicine. 2012; 11(3): 32.