If you’re on the lookout to incorporate a healthier diet, you should definitely consider a diet rich in fish. Fish has a wide array of benefits. It is an excellent source of protein and various nutrients and even lowers the risk of hear disease. However, similar to all other sources of food, fish can also have its drawbacks. In this article, we cover the benefits as well as disadvantages of a fish rich diet, to help you make an informed decision!
Benefits of a Fish Diet
Good Source of Nutrients
First and foremost, fish is known to be an excellent source of nutrients. Whether it’s protein, vitamins, minerals, or iodine, fish has it all. Many people choose to eat a fish rich diet because it contains Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for bone formation and growth, so incorporating it into your diet is highly beneficial.
Fatty fish like trout and salmon are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are also extremely beneficial to health. While other sources of protein, such as red meat, fish is low in saturated fat, making it an even healthier option.
Lowers Risk of Heart Disease
Omega-3 fatty acids, which are present in high amounts in fatty fish, are also linked to lowering the risk of heart disease. The fatty acids are known to reduce triglyceride levels and help in lessening the plaque that develops in coronary arteries. Eating fish can provide you with an ample supply of protein without bringing the chance of coronary disease. The American Heart Association recommends you should include fish twice a week in your diet.
Improves Brain Function
A fish diet is also known to improve in brain function and aid brain development. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to be connected to maintaining brain health, specifically during aging. Additionally, these fatty acids are also proven to help in a children’s brain development and even pre-natal development. Studies have shown that women who consumed lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy had children with delayed brain development.
Promotes Healthier Skin and Hair
If you want healthier hair and skin you should certainly be looking into a fish diet. The omega-3 fatty acids present in fish help in retaining moisture in the skin. This helps in fighting acne and dryness and overall giving your skin a better appearance. Similarly, the protein and fatty acids in fish can also contribute to the wellness of hair. Fish consumption can make your hair healthier and even promote hair growth.
Disadvantages of Eating Fish
The main concern of a fish diet is associated to it being contaminated. With pollutants swarming the sea, there is a chance that fish can become contaminated with substances such as mercury. Excessive consumption of mercury can damage brain function, specially in children.
People who are already at risk of cardiovascular disease should avoid eating fish rich diets as their heart health is already compromised. Although fish is healthier than red meat, too much can be dangerous for people who are already at risk.
Strike a Balance
The numerous benefits of a fish rich diet certainly outweigh its disadvantages. The balance lies in taking care of of the source from where you obtain fish. Also try to choose fish with lower levels of mercury such as sardines, salmon, and trout. If eaten responsibly, a fish rich diet will not only taste good, but it will also make you feel good!
Come Visit Our Seafood Restaurant At The NC State Farmer’s Market!
NC Seafood prides itself in providing fresh seafood. Come down to the NC State Farmer’s Market in Raleigh to find out we’re the best! Check out our menu!