Several studies have concluded that mercury is associated with cardiovascular problems in addition to the neurological damage it is known to cause. One study showed that mercury levels among men who had had a heart attack were 15 percent higher than those who had not.

Some researchers have concluded that the heart-healthy benefits of the omega-3’s found in fish outweigh the risks of mercury contamination. But others warn that a more prudent approach might be wiser.

Increasing numbers of physicians are reporting mercury poisoning in their patients who eat large quantities of fish. Symptoms can include memory lapses, hair loss, fatigue, sleeplessness, tremors, headaches, muscle and joint pain, trouble thinking, gastrointestinal disturbances and an inability to do complex tasks.