Health Benefits of Salmon & Tips on What Types of Salmon You Should Eat
Health Benefits of Salmon
Wild salmon is one of the healthiest foods around. First of all, it’s a great source of protein, containing all of the essential amino acids. Salmon is also low in calories and saturated fat. Salmon is a great source of omega 3 fatty acids as well as selenium, a powerful antioxidant. It’s also high in B vitamins, especially B3 and B12, which are important for a healthy metabolism. Eating wild salmon improves heart health by preventing arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, and stopping blood clot formation in the arteries. Cold water fish, such as salmon, that are high in omega 3s actually decrease the risk of heart attacks and strokes. A diet rich in salmon decreases triglyceride levels and improves blood circulation.
If you have problems with arthritis, salmon might be an answer to your problems. Salmon improves the symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. In addition, salmon has anti-inflammatory effects on the body that improve cognitive, or brain function as well as mental health. Patients with bipolar disorder, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease have had improvements associated with a diet rich in salmon. You’ll even enjoy better skin and healthier hair as a result of adding salmon to your diet.
Wild Salmon is Best
When choosing a salmon product at the grocery store, there’s one very important thing to consider. Is the salmon you are considering purchasing farm-raised or pacific wild-caught salmon? The answer to this question should determine whether or not this is the salmon for you. Farm-raised salmon is not a healthy product, pure and simple. Farm-raised salmon contains antibiotics and pesticides that can cause cancer. Even though you might pay a little more, choose wild-caught salmon.
Wild Salmon, A Versatile Fish
Wild salmon is a versatile fish. It has a mild taste that lends itself well to many different seasonings. Salmon tastes great grilled, sauteed or even baked in foil with vegetables. It is one of the most popular fish used for sushi, tasting just as good raw as when cooked.
Buy frozen salmon filets that are individually wrapped and can be cooked from frozen. You’ll reap the health benefits as well as the convenience of a quick, easy to prepare dinner idea. Set a goal to eat salmon twice a week and you’ll improve your family’s overall health.
Resources
1. Food Network
2. Livestrong