Whether you prefer smoked tuna or fried catfish, there’s no doubt that fish offers a uniquely fresh and delicious culinary experience. But did you know that these dishes from the deep also offer a wide array of health benefits? If you’re figuring out what to make for your next meal, here are a few ways your body will thank you for choosing seafood.
5 Health Benefits of Fish
1. Promotes Heart Health
Fish—particularly salmon, tuna, mackerel, and lake trout—are high in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and unsaturated fats. As the American Heart Association explains, these nutritional components can help reduce a person’s risk of irregular heartbeat, heart attacks, strokes, and developing cardiovascular disease.
2. Builds Stronger Bones
Vitamin D is typically acquired through sun exposure, but it can also be found in many types of fish. Required for calcium absorption, vitamin D plays a vital role in building stronger bones. As a result, including seafood in your diet can help stave off bone problems—such as fractures and osteoporosis.
3. Supports Child Development
According to the USDA, many fish contain omega-3 fatty acids that are particularly beneficial for nervous system development in unborn and young babies. When mothers consume fish, these nutrients are passed on to the baby in utero or through breastfeeding. However, new and expectant mothers should be cautious about the seafood they do eat, as some may contain high levels of mercury that can be unsafe. As such, the USDA recommends choosing salmon, herring, trout, and other fish that are high in omega-3s and low in mercury.
4. Eases Depression
In addition to being good for your physical health, fish may be beneficial for your mental health. Specifically, research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood can help defend against depression. Additional studies also note that these nutrients may help improve the effectiveness of antidepressant medication.
5. Protects Vision
The Harvard Medical School explains that the omega-3 fatty acids found in coldwater fish offer anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit the eyes. As a result, eating a balanced dose of seafood may help individuals reduce their likelihood of age-related macular degeneration—a leading cause of vision loss among seniors.
When you want to treat your body—and your tastebuds—to the benefits of fish, make plans to dine at DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen. Located in Gulf Shores, AL, this seafood restaurant offers a diverse menu of fresh and nutritional fish. In addition to fish, this establishment also serves up satisfying shrimp, crab, oysters, and other Creole favorites. Visit this local restaurant online to check out their full menu or call (251) 948-7294 to schedule your reservation for lunch or dinner.