Fish is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, a fatty acid that our body cannot produce on its own. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in every kind of fish, but are especially high in fatty fish. Good fish choices for Omega-3’s include salmon, tuna (canned light), trout, sardines, sea bass, oysters, crab, perch, shrimp, and cod.
Numerous studies show that Omega-3 fatty acids:
- decrease heart disease
- reduce blood pressure
- help prevent arthritis
- help prevent abnormal heart rhythms
- promote healthy brain function
Researchers for the American Dietetic Association found that fatty fish aid short-term memory. The Rush Institute for Healthy Aging states that people who eat at least one meal of fish per week will be significantly less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease than those who never eat fish.
Healthy Body & Diet
Fish is low-fat and is a good quality protein, filled with vitamins like riboflavin (Vitamin B2), which aids the body in the metabolism of amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates and Vitamin D, which aids calcium absorption to help prevent osteoporosis. Fish is also rich in calcium and phosphorus and a great source of minerals, such as iron, zinc, potassium (a mineral needed for muscles, nerves, and fluid balance in the body), iodine, and magnesium. When people substitute meat for fish, they decrease their intake of these essential vitamins, minerals, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Fish & Diabetes
Fish is good choice for people with diabetes. The high protein supply aids in the regulation of blood sugar. Fish is a good low calorie, high protein choice to assist in weight loss.