High Mercury Levels Increases Diabetes Risk

Data on nearly 3,900 young adults showed those with higher levels of mercury had a 65% greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes but also had healthier lifestyles compared with other participants. The lead researcher said the findings emphasize the importance of choosing seafood known to contain low levels of mercury. Nearly all fish and shellfish contain traces of mercury, but also contain lean protein and other important nutrients, such as magnesium and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which could counter the effects of mercury. Diabetes Care, April 2013