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Fish Cholesterol & Nutrition

The amount of cholesterol and other nutrients in fish varies depending on the type of fish. In general, fish is very low in cholesterol and shellfish is slightly higher.

  1. Cholesterol

    • A 3-ounce (cooked) serving of most fish contains 40 to 80 milligrams of cholesterol. In comparison, 3 ounces of cooked chicken breast contains about 72 mg cholesterol.

    Sterols

    • Shellfish such as mussels and clams contain noncholesterol sterols, which help inhibit cholesterol absorption.

    Fatty Acids

    • Oily fish, such as salmon, herring, and some varieties of tuna and trout, contains Omega-3 fatty acids. According to the Mayo Clinic, these can help reduce inflammation, lowering blood pressure and reducing symptoms of arthritis.

    Heart Disease

    • Some fish, such as catfish and tilapia, however, contain Omega-6 fatty acids, which can increase your risk of heart disease.

    Warnings

    • Fish high in the food chain can contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to children and pregnant women. The FDA recommends that these groups not consume more than 12 ounces of fish, or 6 ounces of canned tuna per week. The groups should also not eat any fish that is high in mercury such as shark or swordfish.

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