Those Phenomenal Phytonutrients
James Corcoran

TROUBLED WATERS

Two recent and separate research papers (reported on, but relegated to the back pages of most major newspapers) literally sent shivers down my spine. Our oceans are showing signs of being in grave danger.

Nature magazine reported that all the oceans' largest fishes are in decline by 90% from pre-1950 levels! Mackerel, tuna, swordfish and others have been severely overfished and what fishing trawlers are netting now are mostly juveniles, thwarting any hope for restoring our oceans' ecosystems.

The other report from the World Wildlife Fund states that, on average, a thousand whales, dolphins, porpoises, turtles and other creatures are drowned each and every day in trawler nets! Many of these species are endangered or threatened with extinction.

Both of these related problems compound the tragic fact that all 17 major fisheries around the globe are at maximum yield or in decline. We may have finally reached the breaking point in the exploitation of our oceans and the creatures within them. International treaties and fishing limits have proven to be mostly useless and frequently ignored. The long-term outlook for our seas is unfortunately bleak.

I bring these disturbing facts to your attention not to upset you or frighten you, but to motivate you to change your eating habits.

Most educated people know that several deep ocean fish species contain omega 3 oils. These oils have been extolled by several experts as being brain- and heart-healthy. Plenty of studies back this claim, but what these experts and studies don't tell you is that fish get these oils from their diet. Yes, they eat plants rich in omega 3 oils and we can do the same thing. Flaxseed, walnuts, soybeans, wheat germ, dark leafy green vegetables, among many other sources, all contains these oils. By eating plants instead of fish you will enjoy improved health, while avoiding contributing to our oceans' devastating problems.