Vegan Health ArticlesFish and Shellfish: Contamination Problems Preclude Inclusion in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans
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From Spring 2004 www.pcrm.org

Nutrient Composition of Fish

Like other meats, fish are especially dense in animal protein (15 to 20 grams in a 3-ounce cooked portion). People in the United States already consume well above the daily value for protein (50 to 65 grams). Protein intake averages about 15 percent of total calories, for a mean intake of approximately 100 grams per day for men and 70 grams per day for women.26 Much of this protein comes from animal sources.

Diets containing excessive protein are associated with increased risk of impaired renal function,27 osteoporosis,28 and complications of diabetes.29 Promotion of fish products may increase protein intake and aggravate these risks.

Furthermore, increasing fish intake would likely increase total fat and saturated fat intake. Although a small amount of the fat in fish is omega-3s, much of the remaining fat is saturated. Chinook salmon, for example, derives 55 percent of its calories from fat, and swordfish derives 30 percent. About one-quarter of the fat in both types of fish is saturated. Fish and shellfish are also significant sources of cholesterol. Three ounces of shrimp have 130 milligrams of cholesterol, while the same amount of bass has 68 milligrams; in comparison, a 3-ounce steak has about 80 milligrams.30

Go on to: Safer Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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All-Creatures.org Health Position and Disclaimer

We began this archive as a means of assisting our visitors in answering many of their health and diet questions, and in encouraging them to take a pro-active part in their own health. We believe the articles and information contained herein are true, but are not presenting them as advice. We, personally, have found that a whole food vegan diet has helped our own health, and simply wish to share with others the things we have found. Each of us must make our own decisions, for it's our own body. If you have a health problem, see your own physician.