{"id":171191,"date":"2025-08-24T07:44:16","date_gmt":"2025-08-24T07:44:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/171191\/"},"modified":"2025-08-24T07:44:16","modified_gmt":"2025-08-24T07:44:16","slug":"is-it-healthy-to-eat-canned-tuna-every-day-dietitians-explain","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/171191\/","title":{"rendered":"Is It Healthy To Eat Canned Tuna Every Day? Dietitians Explain"},"content":{"rendered":"<ul data-node-id=\"0\" class=\"css-1wk73g0 emevuu60\">\n<li data-node-id=\"0.0\">Canned tuna is a nutritious, budget-friendly staple packed with protein and omega-3s, but it should be consumed in moderation due to the risk of mercury buildup over time.<\/li>\n<li data-node-id=\"0.1\">Light or skipjack tuna has lower mercury levels and can be eaten more frequently than albacore.<\/li>\n<li data-node-id=\"0.2\">To shop smarter, opt for tuna packed in water, check labels for sodium, and consider brands that test for mercury\u2014so you can keep enjoying tuna safely and deliciously. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"2\" class=\"body-text css-i9p093 emevuu60\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.delish.com\/cooking\/recipe-ideas\/a43533456\/tuna-salad-recipe\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.delish.com\/cooking\/recipe-ideas\/a43533456\/tuna-salad-recipe\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Canned tuna\" data-node-id=\"2.0\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">Canned tuna<\/a> is basically the Swiss Army knife of the food world; it\u2019s affordable, convenient, and always there for you, even when you\u2019re eating it straight from the can in your pajamas at 2 a.m. Whipping it into <a href=\"https:\/\/www.delish.com\/cooking\/recipe-ideas\/g2992\/weeknight-seafood-dinners\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.delish.com\/cooking\/recipe-ideas\/g2992\/weeknight-seafood-dinners\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"lunch or dinner\" data-node-id=\"2.2\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">lunch or dinner<\/a> can even make you feel like you\u2019ve cracked the code to adulting. But before you make tuna your ride-or-die for every meal, let\u2019s chat about why even this fishy BFF needs some boundaries. <\/p>\n<p>Related StoryWhat Are The Dangers Of Mercury In Tuna?<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"5\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Fish is undeniably a nutritional powerhouse, but when it comes to tuna, mercury is a concern that warrants discussion. \u201cCanned tuna can be a healthy source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, but I don\u2019t recommend eating it every single day. The main concern is mercury and exposure to other environmental toxins, which can accumulate over time and affect the nervous system,\u201d explains <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nomadista_nutrition\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nomadista_nutrition\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Mascha Davis\" data-node-id=\"5.1\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">Mascha Davis<\/a>, M.P.H., R.D.N., author of<a href=\"https:\/\/www.simonandschuster.com\/books\/Eat-Your-Vitamins\/Mascha-Davis\/9781507211359\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.simonandschuster.com\/books\/Eat-Your-Vitamins\/Mascha-Davis\/9781507211359\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\" Eat Your Vitamins\" data-node-id=\"5.3\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\"> Eat Your Vitamins<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"6\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">If tuna is a regular guest at your table, you\u2019re giving mercury the chance to quietly build up in your system. While the occasional serving is nothing to worry about, making tuna your go-to meal every day can increase the risk of long-term side effects. Mercury exposure doesn\u2019t hit you all at once. Instead, it\u2019s a slow creep. Over time, it can accumulate in your brain, nervous system, and kidneys, leading to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/mercury\/health-effects-exposures-mercury\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/mercury\/health-effects-exposures-mercury\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"symptoms like fatigue, memory issues, or hand tremors\" data-node-id=\"6.1\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">symptoms like fatigue, memory issues, or hand tremors<\/a>. In more severe cases, it can cause movement problems, numbness, mood changes, or even trouble with hearing and vision. For kids, pregnant women, and nursing moms, the stakes are even higher, as mercury can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/mercury\/health-effects-exposures-mercury\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/mercury\/health-effects-exposures-mercury\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"interfere with a child\u2019s development\" data-node-id=\"6.3\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">interfere with a child\u2019s development<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Related Story<strong data-node-id=\"9.0\">What Are The Health Benefits Of Tuna?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"10\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Okay, now that we\u2019ve addressed the mercury elephant in the room, let\u2019s not throw the tuna out with the brine. Canned tuna is still a nutritional powerhouse that deserves a spot in your pantry. It\u2019s packed with lean protein, which helps keep you full, supports muscle repair, and fuels your body for all the adulting you\u2019ve got to do. Plus, it\u2019s a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart, eye, and brain health. Not to mention the selenium, vitamin B12, and other key nutrients it provides.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"11\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">And let\u2019s not forget the convenience factor: canned tuna is shelf-stable, budget-friendly, and ready to eat in seconds. Whether you\u2019re whipping up a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.delish.com\/cooking\/recipe-ideas\/a26146096\/tuna-melt-recipe\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.delish.com\/cooking\/recipe-ideas\/a26146096\/tuna-melt-recipe\/\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"quick tuna melt\" data-node-id=\"11.1\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">quick tuna melt<\/a>, tossing it into a salad, or mixing it with pasta, it\u2019s a versatile ingredient that can save the day when you\u2019re short on time. Since most Americans do not consume <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dietaryguidelines.gov\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.dietaryguidelines.gov\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"the recommended 2-3 servings of fish \" data-node-id=\"11.3\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">the recommended 2-3 servings of fish <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dietaryguidelines.gov\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.dietaryguidelines.gov\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"per week\" data-node-id=\"11.4\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\">per week<\/a>, having a convenient option on hand, such as canned tuna, that doesn\u2019t require cooking or even visiting a local fish vendor, is undoubtedly a win. That is\u2014when it isn\u2019t eaten every single day! Moderation is key, my friends. <\/p>\n<p><strong data-node-id=\"12.0\">Which Types Of Tuna Are Lowest In Mercury?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"13\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Not all tuna is created equal, and if you\u2019re going to make it a regular part of your diet, skipjack tuna is your best bet. Why? Skipjack is a smaller species of tuna, which means it tends to have lower mercury levels compared to its larger cousins like albacore or yellowfin.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"14\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Skipjack is often labeled as \u201clight tuna\u201d on cans, so keep an eye out for that when you\u2019re shopping. It\u2019s a great way to enjoy the benefits of tuna without as much worry about mercury. Plus, it\u2019s just as tasty and versatile as other types of tuna, so you\u2019re not sacrificing flavor for safety.<\/p>\n<p>Related Story<strong data-node-id=\"16.0\">How Much Tuna Is Too Much?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"17\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">So, how often can you enjoy your beloved canned tuna without overdoing it? The answer depends on the type of tuna, your overall fish and shellfish intake, and your individual health needs. For many adults, the FDA recommends<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/food\/consumers\/questions-answers-fdaepa-advice-about-eating-fish-those-who-might-become-or-are-pregnant-or\" target=\"_blank\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/food\/consumers\/questions-answers-fdaepa-advice-about-eating-fish-those-who-might-become-or-are-pregnant-or\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\" limiting albacore (white) tuna to about one serving (4 ounces) per week\" data-node-id=\"17.1\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" rel=\"noopener\"> limiting albacore (white) tuna to about one serving (4 ounces) per week<\/a> due to its higher mercury content. Light tuna, which includes skipjack, is considered a safer option and can be enjoyed more frequently, specifically, up to two or three servings per week, especially if you\u2019re not eating other types of fish that week. \u201cA safe guideline is a couple of servings of light tuna per week, balanced with other protein and seafood choices,\u201d explains <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jamieleerdn.com\" data-vars-ga-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.jamieleerdn.com\" data-vars-ga-ux-element=\"Hyperlink\" data-vars-ga-call-to-action=\"Jamie Lee McIntyre\" data-node-id=\"17.3\" class=\"body-link css-1i7jlb0 emevuu60\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Jamie Lee McIntyre<\/a>, M.S., R.D.N., a Florida-based registered dietitian. <\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"18\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Keep in mind that the overall recommendation for fish and shellfish is approximately 8 to 12 ounces per week for most adults, which includes a variety of low-mercury options, such as salmon, shrimp, or sardines.<\/p>\n<p><strong data-node-id=\"19.0\">How To Shop For Canned Tuna<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"20\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">If you\u2019re ready to keep tuna in your life but want to do it safely, here are a few tips to make the most of your meals.<\/p>\n<ol data-node-id=\"21\" class=\"css-1wk73g0 emevuu60\">\n<li data-node-id=\"21.0\">Choose Skipjack or Light Tuna: As mentioned earlier, these options are typically lower in mercury.<\/li>\n<li data-node-id=\"21.1\">Look Out for Other Ingredients: Pay attention to what\u2019s in your can of tuna. Some varieties are packed in oil or come with added salt, which can increase your calorie and sodium intake. Opt for tuna packed in water and check the label for lower-sodium options to keep your meals as healthy as possible.<\/li>\n<li data-node-id=\"21.2\">Choose Brands That Test for Mercury: Some tuna brands, like Safe Catch, go the extra mile by testing their products for mercury levels and ensuring each fish maintains a mercury level lower than the FDA action limit. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong data-node-id=\"22.0\">The Bottom Line<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"23\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">Canned tuna is a fantastic addition to a healthy diet, offering a convenient and affordable source of protein, omega-3s, and many other key nutrients. However, like all good things, it\u2019s best enjoyed in moderation, mainly because of the pesky mercury that can be found in our beloved tuna fish. As with most foods, variety is best and helps keep a diet balanced in nutrients. Try mixing it up with salmon, sardines, or even plant and animal proteins to help you get the benefits without the risks, shares McIntyre.<\/p>\n<p data-journey-content=\"true\" data-node-id=\"24\" class=\"css-i9p093 emevuu60\">So, go ahead and keep that can of tuna in your pantry. After all, it\u2019s a lifesaver on busy days and a delicious way to fuel your body (and it\u2019s great to have on-hand during hurricane season if you live on the coast!). Just remember to give it some space on your weekly menu and let other proteins share the spotlight. After all, even the most loyal tuna fan needs a little variety now and then!<\/p>\n<p>More Health &amp; Nutrition News<\/p>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Canned tuna is a nutritious, budget-friendly staple packed with protein and omega-3s, but it should be consumed in&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":171192,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[37],"tags":[2874,97827,1201,210,2875,1182,97826,67,132,68],"class_list":{"0":"post-171191","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-nutrition","8":"tag-content-type-how-to-service","9":"tag-contentid-e5df3eb9-4fee-4bb7-8cf1-962552277cc2","10":"tag-displaytype-standard-article","11":"tag-health","12":"tag-locale-us","13":"tag-nutrition","14":"tag-shorttitle-is-it-healthy-to-eat-canned-tuna-every-day","15":"tag-united-states","16":"tag-unitedstates","17":"tag-us"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@us\/115082629203848602","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/171191","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=171191"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/171191\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/171192"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=171191"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=171191"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=171191"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}