Health Benefits of Fish
You may have heard the buzz about fish before: how the omega 3s present in the fish-like salons can provide a variety of health benefits. But did you know just how healthy a piece of fresh fish – cooked the right way to bring out the natural flavors – really is? Chef Ron Duprat is a big proponent of fresh fish in his signature dishes, incorporating anything from fluke and flounder to black bass and lobster -- even crab and pearl oysters appear in his creations.
Check out these three health benefits of fish:
Heart Healthy: Did you know that eating just one to two servings of fish a week can reduce your risk of dying from a heart attack? The American Heart Association has long recommended that people eat fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids bi-weekly, and doctors have long promoted the belief that those unsaturated fats in fish, AKA omega-3 fatty acids, can reduce your risk of heart disease. Perhaps you’ve heard concerning news about the presence of mercury in fish; however, doctors continue to believe that the benefits outweigh the risks in this case. Fish like salmon, trout, herring, sardines and tuna packs the biggest punch in terms of omega-3s.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, fish contains a variety of vitamins and minerals essential to healthy growth and development. Not only is fish low in fat, but it’s also high in protein, giving you the energy you need to get through the day and build muscle. Fish is also rich in vitamins D and B2 (riboflavin), calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium, and potassium.
Brain Food: Because it contains so much protein, fish is an important element of the creation of neurotransmitters, which have been proven to improve mental performance. The omega-3s present in fish also acts as protectors of the brain, supporting its development and functional capacities. The best brain foods come from deepest in the sea: salmon, sea bass, halibut, and mackerel. Wild salmon in particular can boost your brain matter, mood, synapses, and arteries, plus it can cut your risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life.
Now that you have three solid reasons why fish is so good for you, start incorporating it into your weekly meals to complement your healthy diet and exercise regimen. It just so happens to be very tasty and low in fat for a guilt-free treat!
