Do Fish-Oil Supplements Contain Mercury? After reading about all the benefits of essential fatty acids, I started giving my family fish oil every day. However, I just read that supplements can have mercury just like fish itself. That was news to me. Is it true?
Yes, it’s true that fish-oil supplements can contain some mercury. And though the fish used for supplements (like anchovies, mackerel and sardines) are less likely to accumulate mercury since they have little toxin-absorbing fat, even low levels can build up in our bodies. This can cause negative effects like hyperactivity, memory difficulties and headaches. Luckily, more supplement manufacturers are making mercury-free fish oils, so they’re easier to find than ever before. A mercury-free brand I recommend: Carlson Very Finest Fish Oil Softgels ($19 for a two month supply, at CarlsonLabs.com and at drugstores).
