Is Tuna the Best Source of Protein After Exercise?

One of my readers posted a comment on google+ concerning a friend's suggestion that she eat canned tuna after her workouts.  She was questioning whether or not this was a good idea, as she was concerned about the levels of mercury in tuna.

If tuna were the only source of mercury that we are exposed to on a daily basis, I wouldn't be highly concerned.  Unfortunately, it is not.  We are exposed to mercury in our water, air, other fish and game on a daily basis.  A significant source of the contamination is from the Midwest as these states use coal as their primary method of generating electricity...the winds blow west to east and bring the mercury-laden air to the eastern states.  PA, NJ and all of New England have mercury concentrations high enough to have issued fish-consumption advisories for all fish caught in these areas.

For those looking to optimize their exercise experience, including the proper way to feed their bodies after working out, it is important to remember that the body digests meat protein differently than vegetable (pea) or grain (rice, hemp) protein.  It can take up to 5 days for meat protein to be completely digested, while vegetable and grain protein is digested, utilized and assimilated very quickly. 

It is my opinion that it's important to feed the body, properly, both before and after a workout.  To that end, I recommend an organic protein and superfood greens drink, mixed with either water, hemp or coconut milk, part of which should be consumed before the workout and the other, after exercise.  Asking the body to perform strenuous exercise while starved of essential nutrients (many people choose not to eat before exercise) may lead to injury...such as micro-tears in the muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints. 

If you enjoy fish and the wonderful essential fatty acids they provide, it is my suggestion that you eat young fish (making certain that it is wild caught and not farmed), as they haven't the concentration of toxins that a large and older fish, such as tuna, has. 

If you are interested in learning more about mercury, its affects and sources, here is an excellent reference:  http://www.usgs.gov/themes/factsheet/146-00/