Podcaster Joe Rogan recently revealed that he had arsenic in his blood after consuming an excessive amount of sardines. During a podcast episode with Elon Musk, Rogan discussed environmental contaminants, including mercury poisoning from eating tuna. He then mentioned that he discovered he had arsenic in his blood, which initially made him suspect foul play. However, Rogan’s doctor determined that his nightly consumption of three cans of sardines was to blame.
Research has shown that sardines can be prone to arsenic contamination, and there have been documented cases of arsenic poisoning in individuals who consumed high amounts of sardines. Rogan admitted that eating three cans of sardines every night had become a habit for him, as it provided an easy meal after late nights at the comedy club. Musk jokingly remarked that it was a lot of sardines.
This incident is not the first time Rogan has shared details about his unique eating habits. He has previously experimented with the carnivore diet, which consists of consuming only meat, sometimes with fruit and/or honey. Rogan even shared his experience of having explosive diarrhea as a result of this diet. However, he successfully recovered from the health scare caused by his sardine consumption by reducing his intake of the fish.
Despite Rogan’s negative experience, dietitian Bianca Tamburello believes that sardines are a good source of protein and healthy fats. She explained that tinned fish, including sardines, have gained popularity due to their affordability, long shelf life, and numerous health benefits. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve heart health and reduce inflammation.
The tinned fish trend, fueled by social media platforms like TikTok and even a viral luxury store in Times Square, has gained traction among a new generation. Tamburello expressed her enthusiasm for the trend, particularly during the pandemic when tinned fish became a go-to choice for many due to its convenience and nutritional value.
To safely enjoy seafood, the FDA recommends consuming it in moderation and avoiding varieties that are prone to high levels of contaminants like mercury and arsenic. Sardines, salmon, shrimp, and light tuna are considered safer options for regular consumption, while seafood like mahi-mahi, halibut, and snapper should be eaten in moderation.
It is important to note that Rogan’s experience with arsenic in his blood serves as a cautionary tale about the potential risks of excessive consumption of certain foods.
