-Commentary-
Today, we’re diving into the topic of seafood. Many health-conscious people opt for leaner animal proteins, like fish and seafood. But, the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad forbade his followers from eating shellfish and advised us to eat smaller fish with scales.
While scavengers like shellfish play a vital role in cleaning the earth’s waters, their consumption can expose you to harmful toxins that accumulate through a process called biomagnification.
Biomagnification occurs when toxins, like heavy metals and industrial chemicals, build up in organisms and become more concentrated as they move up the food chain.
Shellfish—such as shrimp, crabs, clams, and oysters—are bottom-feeders essential for maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems. As a result, they absorb and store harmful toxins.
Large, predatory fish like tuna and swordfish that eat other fish also accumulate high levels of toxins. Humans are at the top of the food chain, so we must take care to minimize our consumption of aquatic pollutants by selecting only the best seafood to eat.
In “How to Eat to Live,” The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad taught us not to eat scavengers like shellfish or fish over 50 pounds. Consuming them can expose you to higher levels of mercury, lead, cadmium and other toxins which can harm your nervous system, kidneys, and overall health.
If the Honorable Elijah Muhammad said don’t eat it—throw it back! Stay away from scavengers and choose fish that have scales and preferably weigh between 1-10 pounds.
If you have special health concerns, consult with your doctor or nutritionist to customize a diet that meets your health needs. I’m Dr. Safiyya and this has been your N.O.I. Healthy Minute.
Dr. Safiyya Shabazz is a family physician based in Philadelphia. This article is not intended to provide health care advice or recommendations. Please consult your physician to address your healthcare needs.