MAYA’S BIOGRAPHY
DIET & EXERCISE PLANSHEALTH BENEFITS OF SALMON
Written by guest author N.P.Burggraaff
Delicious and nutritious
Along with being incredibly tasty, salmon offers many health benefits you might not be aware of. Though salmon contains quite a lot of fat, you can indulge without feeling guilty as these fats have a very positive effect on your body. The fats known as omega 3 fatty acids reduce the risk of arthritis (inflammation of joints) and depression. Omega 3 fatty acids are also good for our brains, nerves, skin and eyes.
Omega 3 fatty acids
Omega 3 fats are essential fatty acids which are not produced by the human body. This means these fats are only obtainable through our diet. One of the main reasons why Omega 3 fatty acids are so important is that they help lower the cholesterol in your blood which prevents cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks, arrhythmia and heart valve problems. Omega 3 fats also help to lower your blood pressure.
Click here to learn more about healthy fats.
Other nutrients in salmon
Salmon contains many other healthy nutrients, including vitamin B (B12). Vitamin B improves boosts brain functions, digestion and fat burning. Salmon also contains vitamin D. The main source of Vitamin D comes from sunlight, but it can also be found in salmon. Vitamin D helps to strengthen our teeth, bones and also boosts our immune system. Next to vitamin A and B, salmon also contains a high level of magnesium. Magnesium is good for our nervous system and regulates the relaxation and contraction of muscles, such as in the walls of our blood vessels. This is how magnesium can also reduce high blood pressure.
A versatile fish
Salmon is incredibly versatile. You can steam, bake, grill or even fry it. You can eat it as a filet or add it to a salad, lasagna, sushi or even in some yoghurt! Check the recipe section of this website for some amazing salmon recipes!
Is it expensive?
Salmon is not cheap. However, in order to maximize its nutritional values, you only need to consume it once or twice a week. You could even opt for canned salmon as a cheaper alternative, just be sure to check the nutrition label for additives. For example, a healthier option would be canned salmon in olive oil instead of canned salmon in sunflower oil.
What about negative publicity concerning salmon?
It's true that there is some negative publicity concerning salmon. It is argued that farmed salmon is not as healthy as wild salmon. Wild salmon has a lower sodium content, more zinc, potassium and calcium than farm-raised salmon. Aside from that, farm-raised fish can be given antibiotics and pesticides to control any diseases. Wild salmon is the healthier option between the two. Always check the labels or ask for more information as to where the salmon came from.
The bottom line
If you eat salmon once or twice a week, then you will consume enough omega 3 fatty acids. Next to omega 3 fatty acids, salmon contains a wide variety of nutrients such as vitamin B and D. There are many different ways to prepare salmon and you could even buy it canned as a cheaper alternative.