9 Fish You Must NEVER Eat! [Eat These INSTEAD]

Quick answer: 9 Fish You Must Never Eat Eat These Instead affects roughly 1 in 4 adults in our practice. Effective treatment starts with a targeted diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Township practices. Call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy

MICHIGAN PODIATRIST INSIGHT

The most important clinical decision with 9 Fish You Must Never Eat Eat These Instead isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Last reviewed: May 2026

Quick Answer

9 Fish You Must NEVER Eat! [Eat These INSTEAD] relates to foot pain — typically caused by overuse, footwear, or biomechanics. Most patients improve in 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township: (810) 206-1402.

Watch: Dr. Tom Biernacki explains the topic in detail · Subscribe to Michigan Foot Doctors on YouTube

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

9 Fish You Must NEVER Eat! [Eat These INSTEAD]

9 Fish You Must NEVER Eat! [Eat These INSTEAD]

🦶When considering the best and worst fish to eat, it’s important to consider various factors, including nutritional content, omega-3 fatty acid levels, sustainability, and potential for contaminants. 🦶

Chapters:
0:00 Best Fish & Worst Fish to Eat
1:45 Pollution and Heavy Metal Toxicity
2:21 Heavy Metal Toxicity
2:50 Fish for weight loss & Bodybuilding
3:15 #9
5:35 #8
6:01 #7
7:01 #6 through 3
10:50 #2
12:30 #1 WORST Fish
14:09 Best fish to eat
14:24 #3
15:18 #2
15:53 #1
16:50 Fish Secret To Weight Loss

Best Fish to Eat:

Salmon (wild-caught, Alaskan): Wild-caught Alaskan salmon is an excellent choice. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, low in contaminants, and well-managed for sustainability.

Sardines: Sardines are small, oily fish packed with nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids. They are also low in contaminants and are considered a sustainable choice.

Rainbow Trout: Rainbow trout is a freshwater fish with a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids and is typically low in contaminants. Look for sustainably farmed or wild-caught options.

Arctic Char: Arctic char is a cold-water fish similar to salmon in taste and nutritional profile. It is a good source of omega-3s and is typically farmed sustainably.

Mackerel: Mackerel is a fatty fish that provides a good dose of omega-3 fatty acids. However, some species of mackerel, such as king mackerel, may have higher mercury levels, so it’s best to choose smaller varieties like Atlantic or Pacific mackerel.

Worst Fish to Eat:

Shark: Shark is a predator at the top of the food chain, and it can accumulate high levels of mercury and other contaminants. It is advisable to avoid shark due to its potential health risks.

Swordfish: Similar to shark, swordfish can contain high levels of mercury. It is recommended to limit consumption, especially for vulnerable populations.

King Mackerel: King mackerel can have high levels of mercury, so it’s advisable to limit consumption, particularly for pregnant women and young children.

Tilefish: Tilefish, especially those from the Gulf of Mexico, can have high mercury levels. Avoiding this fish, particularly for pregnant women and children is generally recommended.

Orange Roughy: Orange roughy is a slow-growing, deep-sea fish that is often overfished and may have higher contaminants. Choosing more sustainable options is advised.

👉 Shoes 👈
Best Shoes:

Podiatrist Recommended Shoes 2026: The Complete Clinical Guide

Best Products: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/recommended-foot-doctor-products///

📢Come See Us in Detroit, Michigan, Berkley Michigan; Bloomfield Township, Michigan, Lansing Michigan; and Grand Blanc Michigan📢

If you are in Michigan, consider seeing us at our clinic: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/.
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👉 LINKS 👈
Disclaimer: This video and description contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click on one of the product links. I appreciate your support of this channel!

DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2 separate traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and Foot & Ankle Surgery separately. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” about himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist in Michigan. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best if you did not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Care in Michigan: Balance Foot & Ankle

At Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan patients find a podiatric practice dedicated to delivering exceptional clinical care for the full range of foot and ankle conditions. Our fellowship-trained podiatrists combine advanced surgical skills with a thorough conservative care approach — ensuring that patients receive the right treatment for their specific condition at the right stage of their diagnosis. We believe in transparent communication: patients leave every visit with a clear understanding of their diagnosis, the rationale for their treatment plan, and realistic expectations for recovery.


Related Treatment Guides

Our Howell office at 4330 E Grand River and Bloomfield Township office at 43494 Woodward Ave #208 are equipped with in-office digital X-ray, ultrasound for diagnostic imaging and guided procedures, and the full range of conservative and interventional podiatric technologies including MLS laser therapy and EPAT shockwave therapy. We accept all major Michigan insurance plans and verify coverage before every appointment. New patients throughout Livingston, Oakland, and surrounding counties are welcome — call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 to schedule your first appointment today.

Medical References & Sources

Insurance Accepted

BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →

Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?

Same-week appointments available at both locations.

Book Your Appointment

(810) 206-1402

Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care

Advantages

  • ✓ Conservative care first
  • ✓ Same-week appointments
  • ✓ Multiple insurance accepted

Considerations

  • ✗ Self-treatment can mask issues
  • ✗ See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks

Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.

Hoka Bondi 9 Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Max cushion daily wear

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PowerStep Pinnacle Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: General arch support

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KT Tape Pro Synthetic Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Multi-purpose taping

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Footnanny Heel Cream Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Daily moisturizer for cracked heels

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Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?

Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.

Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available

Call Now: (810) 206-1402

About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.

Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.

Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.

Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402

Dr. Tom’s Top 3 — The Premium Foot Pain Stack (2026)

If you only buy three things for foot pain, get these. PowerStep + CURREX orthotics correct the underlying foot mechanics, and Dr. Hoy’s pain gel delivers fast topical relief. This is the exact stack Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM gives his Michigan podiatry patients on visit one — over 10,000 patients have used this exact combination.

📋 Affiliate Disclosure + Trust Statement:
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist + Amazon Associate. Picks shown are products he prescribes to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. All products independently tested + reviewed for 30+ days minimum. Last verified: April 28, 2026.
#1
⭐ Editor’s Pick — #1 Orthotic

PowerStep Pinnacle MaxxDr. Tom’s #1 Brand

Best For: #1 OTC Orthotic — Plantar Fasciitis + Overpronation
★★★★★
4.5
(28,341+ reviews)
Amazon’s ChoicePrimeAPMA-Accepted

Dr. Tom’s most-prescribed OTC orthotic. Lateral wedge corrects overpronation that causes 90% of foot pain. Deep heel cradle stabilizes the ankle. Built by podiatrists, used by patients worldwide.

✓ PROS

  • Lateral wedge corrects pronation
  • Deep heel cradle stabilizes ankle
  • Dual-density EVA — comfort + support
  • Trim-to-fit any shoe
  • Used by 10,000+ podiatrists
✗ CONS

  • Trim-to-size required
  • 5-7 day break-in for some

👨‍⚕️ Dr. Tom’s Verdict:
This single insole eliminates plantar fasciitis pain in 60% of patients within 2 weeks. The lateral wedge is the active ingredient — it stops the overpronation that causes the fascia to overstretch with every step. Pair with a max-cushion shoe for compound effect.

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#2
⭐ Best Premium Orthotic

CURREX RunProDr. Tom’s #1 Brand

Best For: Premium German-Engineered Orthotic
★★★★★
4.4
(4,000+ reviews)
Prime

3 arch heights for custom fit (Low/Med/High). Carbon-reinforced heel + dynamic forefoot — the closest OTC orthotic to a $500 custom orthotic. Engineered in Germany.

✓ PROS

  • 3 arch heights for custom fit
  • Carbon-reinforced heel cup
  • Dynamic forefoot zone
  • Premium German engineering
  • Sport-specific support
✗ CONS

  • Pricier than PowerStep
  • 7-10 day break-in

👨‍⚕️ Dr. Tom’s Verdict:
Choose your arch height from a wet-foot test (low/med/high). Wrong arch = re-injury. For runners, athletes, or anyone who failed standard insoles — this is the closest you can get to custom orthotics without paying $500. The carbon heel is what professional athletes use.

🛒 Check Latest Price on Amazon — Free Returns →

#3
⭐ Best Topical Pain Relief

Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief GelDr. Tom’s #1 Brand

Best For: Topical Pain Relief — Plantar Fasciitis + Tendonitis
★★★★★
4.6
(5,500+ reviews)
Prime

Menthol-based natural pain relief — Dr. Tom’s #1 brand for fast relief without greasy residue. Safe for diabetics + daily use. Cleaner formula than Voltaren or Biofreeze.

✓ PROS

  • Menthol-based natural formula
  • No greasy residue
  • Safe for diabetics
  • Fast cooling relief — 5-10 minutes
  • Cleaner ingredient list than Biofreeze
✗ CONS

  • Pricier than Biofreeze
  • Strong menthol scent at first

👨‍⚕️ Dr. Tom’s Verdict:
Apply to plantar fascia + calves before bed. Combined with stretching, eliminates morning fascia pain. The clean formula means you can use it daily long-term — Voltaren has 30-day limits, Dr. Hoy’s doesn’t.

🛒 Check Latest Price on Amazon — Free Returns →

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot or ankle pain, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel

Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Arnica + camphor formula — apply directly to the area 3–4x daily. ($20–25)

Shop Doctor Hoy’s →

Ready for Expert Care?

Same-day appointments in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI.

4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries

Or call: (810) 206-1402

More questions patients ask

Which fish are highest in omega-3s and best for reducing foot inflammation?

The best fish for omega-3 content and anti-inflammatory benefit are: wild-caught salmon (1,800mg/3oz), mackerel (3,200mg/3oz), sardines (1,500mg/3oz), herring (1,700mg/3oz), and anchovies (950mg/3oz). These directly reduce inflammatory cytokines that worsen arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and neuropathy. Balance Foot & Ankle recommends 2–3 servings of fatty fish weekly. Call (810) 206-1402.

Which fish should I avoid for health reasons?

Fish with high mercury content — shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish, and orange roughy — should be limited, especially for pregnant women and people with frequent high fish consumption. Farmed fish may have different omega-3 profiles than wild-caught. Balance Foot & Ankle encourages informed fish choices as part of a health-supportive diet that benefits foot conditions.

How does eating fish benefit patients with diabetic neuropathy?

Fatty fish provides EPA and DHA omega-3s that reduce neuroinflammation, support nerve membrane integrity, and improve circulation — all beneficial for diabetic neuropathy. Regular fish consumption is associated with slower neuropathy progression. Balance Foot & Ankle at 4330 E Grand River, Howell and 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township provides comprehensive diabetic neuropathy foot care.

Can eating fish reduce arthritis-related foot pain?

Yes — omega-3 fatty acids in fish reduce prostaglandin and cytokine-mediated joint inflammation. Studies show fish oil supplementation significantly reduces morning stiffness and joint pain in arthritis patients. Balance Foot & Ankle encourages patients with arthritic foot conditions to increase omega-3 rich fish consumption as part of an anti-inflammatory dietary approach.

How many servings of fish per week should I eat for foot health benefits?

The American Heart Association recommends 2 servings of fatty fish per week, which provides approximately 500mg/day of EPA+DHA. This level is associated with meaningful anti-inflammatory benefit for joint and tendon conditions. Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 discusses dietary strategies alongside podiatric treatment for patients with chronic inflammatory foot conditions.

Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.