ITEMS OF INTEREST

Healthy Living

Canned Tuna: New Test, Same Risk

Fish is a good source of protein with lots of omega-3 fatty acids. But many species also have high levels of a toxic form of mercury that can harm the heart and nervous system, and developing fetuses. And new tests from Consumer Reports provides more evidence that canned tuna continues to be among the species with worrisome mercury levels.

The tests, done by an outside lab, assessed the mercury found in 42 cans and pouches of white (albacore) and light tuna. Every sample had 0.018 to 0.774 parts per million of mercury, with albacore tuna averaging about six times the average level in light tuna.

Mercury in fish poses the biggest risk to pregnant women, those of childbearing age, children, and fetuses, but men and older women who eat a lot should also consider limits.

Source: "Canned tuna: New tests, same risk" Consumer Reports On Health (Volume 23 Number 2, February 2011): p.3.

Some Suggestions

1. Pregnant women: Avoid canned or tuna in pouches as a precaution.

2. Women of childbearing age: Limit weekly intake to 12.5 oz. of light tuna or 4 oz. of white.

3. Children under 45 pounds: Limit intake to 4 oz. or less of light tuna or 1.5 oz. or less of white tuna a week, depending on the child's weight.

4. Children 45 pounds or more: Limit intake to 4 to 12.5 oz. of light or 1.5 to 4 oz. of white tuna weekly, depending on the child's weight.

5. Men and older women: Limit intake to about 14.5 oz. of light tuna or 5 oz. of white tuna weekly. If you eat fish more often, choose low-mercury kinds like Alaskan salmon, clams, shrimp, and tilapia.

Clergy

The Rev. Charles Davidson

Vestry Members

Carol Anderson, Cyrus Aimey (Junior Warden), Veronica Airey-Wilson,

Joyce Asiedu,

Walter Benjamin (Senior Warden),

Nora Brown,

Terry Brown (Treasurer),

Marie Brown-Harvey (Secretary), Evelyn Green, Shannon Holder, Bates Lyons, Joe Noel, Peter Marsele, Terrie Thomas, Herbert Bowen ( Hon)

Music

Rochelle Holder - Youth Choir

Nathaniel Baker - Music Director/Organist

Rector Emeritus

Canon Cyril Burke

Email

monicahartford@gmail.com