Fish - Health Benefits 

The fact the average age of people developing and dying from heart disease is constantly decreasing has considerably increased the importance attached to coronary health. Although a great many advances have been registered in the treatment of heart disease, experts in the field basically recommend that careful precautions be taken before such diseases ever arise. Experts also recommend one important foodstuff for the healthy functioning of the heart and the prevention of disease: fish.

The reason why fish is such an important source of nutrition is that it both provides substances necessary for the human body and also reduces the risk of various diseases. For example, it has been revealed that when fish—which acts as a shield in terms of health with the omega-3 acid it contains—is consumed on a regular basis, it reduces the risk of heart disease and strengthens the immune system.

In fact, when we examine the nutritional properties of fish, we encounter some very striking facts. Fish, given to us as a blessing by our Lord, are a perfect food, particularly in terms of protein, vitamin D and trace elements (certain elements found in minimal quantities in the body but which are still of great importance to it). Due to the minerals they contain—such as phosphorus, sulphur and vanadium—fish encourages growth and enables tissues to recover. Fish meat also assists in the formation of healthy teeth and gums, benefits the complexion, makes the hair healthier and contributes to the fight against bacterial infection. It also plays an important role in the prevention of heart attacks as it beautifully regulates the level of cholesterol in the blood. It helps the body to break down and use starch and fats, making it stronger and more energetic. On the other hand, it also influences the functioning of mental activities. In the event that the vitamin D and other minerals contained in fish are not consumed in sufficient quantities, disorders such as rickets (bone weakness), gum disease, goitre and hyperthyroid may all arise.

In addition, modern science has also discovered that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish also occupy an important place in human health. These fats have even been described as essential fatty acids.

The Benefits of Omega-3 in Fish Oil

There are two kinds of unsaturated fatty acid in fish oil which are particularly important for our health: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). EPA and DHA are known as polyunsaturated fats and contain the important omega-3 fatty acids. Since the fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6 are not manufactured in the human body, they need to be taken in from the outside.

There is a large body of evidence relating to the benefits to human health of fish oil, the actual benefit stemming from its omega-3 fatty acid content. Despite being present in vegetable oils, these omega-3 fatty acids are less effective in relation to human health. However, marine plankton is very effective at turning omega-3 into EPA and DHA. When fish eat plankton, their constitution becomes much richer in EPA and DHA. That, in turn, makes fish one of the richest sources of these vitally important fatty acids.

Vital Benefits of the Fatty Acids Found in Fish

One of the main features of the fatty acids in fish is the contribution they make to the body’s energy production. These fatty acids carry out electron transfers by attaching themselves to oxygen in the body and permit energy to be produced for various chemical processes within it. There is therefore considerable evidence that a diet rich in fish oil helps combat fatigue and increases mental and physical capacity. Omega-3 increases the individual’s powers of concentration as much as it does his or her energy levels. There is a scientific foundation to the old saying “fish is good for the brain”: The main compound in brain fat is DHA, which contains omega-3 fatty acids.

The Importance of Fish for a Healthy Heart and Arteries

The omega-3 fatty acid in fish is acknowledged to protect against cardiovascular disease by reducing blood pressure and the cholesterol and triglyceride in the blood. 2 Triglyceride is a form of fat and resembles LDL (bad cholesterol) which is high in fat and low in protein content. A raised triglyceride level, especially together with high cholesterol, increases the risk of heart disease. In addition, fish oils reduce life-threatening post-heart attack abnormal heart rhythms.

In one study by the American Medical Association, it was observed that heart attack levels in women eating five portions of fish a week fell by one-third. This is thought to stem from the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil causing less blood clotting. The normal speed of blood in our veins is 60 kmph (37.3 mph) and it is of vital importance for the blood to be of the right viscosity and for the density, quantity and speed to be at normal levels. The worst danger for our blood—apart from normal conditions of bleeding—is for it to clot and lose the ability to flow properly. Fish oils are also effective in reducing blood clotting by preventing the thrombocytes in the blood (blood platelets that concentrate the blood in the event of bleeding) from adhering to one another. Otherwise, blood thickening can lead to narrowing of the arteries. In turn, this can lead to many organs in the body—especially the heart, brain, eyes and kidneys—receiving an inadequate blood supply, function deceleration and eventually, loss of function. For example, when an artery is totally blocked on account of clotting this can lead to heart attack, paralysis or other disorders, depending on the location of the artery.

Omega-3 fatty acids also play an important role in the production of the molecule haemoglobin, that carries oxygen in the red blood cells, and in controlling the nutrients passing through the cell membrane. They also prevent the damaging effects of fats harmful to the body.

Importance for the Development of New Born Babies

Being an important component of the brain and eye, omega-3 fatty acids have been the subject of research, especially over the last 10 years, in connection with the needs of new born babies. There is a considerable body of evidence relating to the importance of omega-3 to the development of the foetus in the mother’s womb and of the new-born baby. Omega-3 is of the greatest importance for the proper development of the brain and nerves throughout pregnancy and in early babyhood. Scientists emphasise the importance of mother’s milk since it is a natural and perfect store of omega-3.

Benefits for Joint Health

The major risk in rheumatoid arthritis (a painful joint condition linked to rheumatism) is that of wearing of the joints, leading to irreparable damage. It has been proven that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids prevents arthritis and reduces discomfort in swollen and sensitive joints.

Benefits Regarding the Healthy Functioning of the Brain and Nervous System

A large number of studies have revealed the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on the healthy functioning of the brain and nerves. In addition, it has been shown that fish oil reinforcement can reduce symptoms of depression and schizophrenia and prevent Alzheimer’s disease (a brain disease which causes loss of memory and hinders day-to-day activities). For example, reductions in such problems as anxiety, stress and sleeping difficulties have been observed in individuals suffering from depression who took 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acid over a period of 12 weeks. 3

Benefits against Inflammatory Disorders and Strengthening of the Immune System

At the same time, omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory (infection preventing) function. Omega-3 can therefore be employed in the following diseases:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (joint infection linked to rheumatism),
• Osteoarthritis (a form of arthritis gradually degenerating the functions of joints)
• Ulcerative colitis (ulcers linked to the inflammation of the colon), and
• Lupus (a disease which causes patches on the skin).
• It also protects myelin (the material surrounding nerve cells).
• Glaucoma (an eye disorder marked by abnormally high pressure within the eyeball that may even lead to blindness)
• Multiple sclerosis (a serious progressive disease resulting from tissue hardening in the brain and spinal cord),
• Osteoporosis (a disease leading to structural weakening in the bone structure)
• Diabetes patients.
• Migraine patients
• Anorexia (a possibly fatal eating disorder)
• Burns
• Problems concerning skin health.

There is also wide-ranging evidence that societies such as the Greenland Eskimos and Japanese, who eat a lot of fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acid, have a much lower incidence of heart and artery disease, asthma and psoriasis. Fish is therefore recommended as a form of treatment and is particularly recommended by nutritionists on account of its proven benefits for coronary health.

Additional benefits to those outlined above are emerging every day. Moreover, it has only been possible to reveal the health benefits of fish by a great many scientists working in well-equipped research laboratories.

Salmon

Salmon are usually classified either as Pacific (Oncorhynchus family) or Atlantic (Salmo family) salmon, according to the ocean in which they are found. There is just one species of Atlantic salmon, while there are five species of Pacific salmon including chinook (or king), sockeye (or red), coho (or silver), pink and chum. Norwegian salmon, a popular type of salmon often offered on restaurant menus, is actually Atlantic salmon that is farm-raised in Norway.

Health Benefits of Salmon

• Muscles, Tissues, Enzymes, Hormones etc.: Proteins or amino acids are essential components of our cells, tissues, enzymes, hormones and every other body part. The proteins from salmon (and most other fishes) are easy digestible and easily absorbed into the body. They do neither have any adverse side effects nor contain carcinogenic compounds, like other meats do. Salmons are also source of good fat (omega-3 fatty acids) which also plays a vital role in keeping you healthy. Salmon is also rich in some of the very essential minerals like iron, calcium, selenium and phosphorus and vitamins like A, B and D. Selenium, which is very necessary for building up of tissues, hair, nails etc., is best obtained from animal proteins and among which, salmon is one of the best.
• Cardio-Vascular Health: While the Omega-3 Fatty Acids help reduce cholesterol, maintain flexibility of arteries and veins and strengthen cardiac muscles, the essential amino acids repair damages to the cardio-vascular tissues. They help reduce the blood pressure too, as they lower cholesterol level and prevent hardening of walls of arteries and veins, thereby considerably reducing the chances of heart attack.
• Metabolism: The Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin-D and selenium, together help increase influence of insulin, thereby facilitating absorption of sugar and consequent lowering of blood sugar level.
• Eye Care: Again, the Omega-3 fatty acids and amino acids help prevent macular degeneration, dryness, loss of vision and fatigue of eyes. It is a proven fact that people who eat fishes regularly or more than others, have better vision than others, longer.
• Brain & Nerves: The Omega-3 fatty acids increase efficiency of the brain, improves memory and keep it wide awake during long working hours. In company with the amino acids, vitamin-A & D and selenium, these fatty acids protect nervous system from damages from aging, act as anti depressant, relaxes the brain and are also helpful in treating Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Perhaps that is why the fish eaters are supposed to be more intelligent than the meat eaters.
• Other Benefits: Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation of the arteries and digestive system, reduce chances of cancer of colon, prostrate and kidneys etc., improve skin texture, add shining to eyes, skin, hair and nails and help in the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon. The fatter the salmon, the more nutritious and healthy it is. It is a good protein supplement of older or sick people too, being easy digestible. In some parts of the world, it is cheaper than other sources of animal proteins such as meat, poultry etc.

Sardines

Sardines are the small fish packed in either tin can or glass bottles. Most people eat sardines because it is one of the most convenient food you can eat when you are in a hurry, no preparation required, just simply peel off the thin metal top and enjoy.

Health Benefits of Sardines

• Sardines are considered as brain food because the omega-3 fatty acids in sardines are important for the brain memory and performance.
• Sardines omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and therefore beneficial to those people suffering from joint problems like arthritis.
• Sardines are high in calcium and vitamin D which help promote stronger bones.
• Sardines contain Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) an antioxidant that is enhances physical energy and cardiovascular health. Coenzyme Q10 is beneficial for those people with hypertension and heart abnormalities.
• Sardines are also an excellent source of tryptophan, an essential amino acid.
• The high protein content of sardines helps to promote a feeling of fullness and the lack of carbohydrates helps to keep blood sugars stable. 

Shrimp

While shrimp may be small, they certainly are anything but shrimpy in their appeal. In fact, these deliciously clean and crisp tasting crustaceans are the most popular seafood in the United States, not counting canned tuna fish. The firm, translucent flesh of raw shrimp comes in a wide range of colors depending upon the variety. It can be pink, gray, brownish or yellow. Once cooked, the flesh of these crustaceans becomes opaque and cream or pinkish in color. 

Health Benefits of Shrimp

• Shrimp is an excellent source of selenium, this neutralizes the injurious effects if free radicals which is the main cause of cancer and other degenerative diseases.
• Shrimp has low-fat and low-calorie protein, a four ounce serving of shrimp supplies 23.7 grams of protein for a mere 112 calories and less than a gram of fat.
• Shrimp is a very good source of vitamin D. This vitamin regulates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which is essential for strong teeth and bones.
• Shrimp has anti-inflammatory qualities that can help reduce gum swelling.
• Shrimp is a good source of vitamin B12. This vitamin is important for the proper brain function and essential for the formation and maturation of blood cells.
• Shrimp is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids which reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems because it reduces cholesterol in the blood.
• Omega-3 fatty acids can also ease the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, avoid blood clots, prevent the development of rheumatoid arthritis, slows the growth of cancerous tumors, and helps prevent Alzheimer's disease.

Tuna

Tuna fish is one of the most loved fishes in the world, thanks in part to the popularity of canned tuna. Yet, while canned tuna is a delicious and nutritious food, if you have never tried fresh tuna, you have been missing out on an even healthier culinary treat since fresh tuna retains more of its beneficial omega-3 fats than canned.

Health Benefits of Tuna

Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to healthy brain development, improve circulation and reduce inflammation resulting from exercise and competition. Omega-3s also improve energy levels and have many heart health benefits.

Selenium, a powerful antioxidant found in tuna, can help bolster the immune system and thwart colds and flu that can result when heavy training impairs the immune system.

B vitamins in tuna maintain and build red blood cells and increase energy levels, which is much needed during the most grueling of workouts.

Vitamin D, also found in tuna, helps to build strong bones. In the article Are you at risk of a vitamin D deficiency?, author Christine Cristiano reports that studies indicate vitamin D is also essential in helping the body fight infection and combat cancer as well as plays a protective role against multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases.

Lean protein is essential to building lean muscle mass and providing the body with energy. Research shows that eating protein-rich foods like canned tuna can help with satiety and slow down digestion, keeping you fuller longer and leaving you less likely to eat more calories at your next meal.

Low in fat and calories, tuna is a great substitute for meats and dairy products that are higher in saturated fats and trans fatty acids.

Source: www.naturalfoodbenefits.com