When it comes to the nutritional benefits of eating fish, wild-caught salmon is one of the best choices. Loaded with protein and omega 3’s (DHA and EPA – one of the highest), it also provides iron, zinc, niacin, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. All these wonderful nutrients will prolong your life and assist in preventing heart attacks and cancer.
5 Salmon Health Benefits
- Packed with vitamin D
Salmon contains a significant amount of vitamin D in just one serving. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to everything from cancer to multiple sclerosis to rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease. A common misconception is that because we live in sunny South Africa, most people have adequate levels of vitamin D. Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is quite common. Many patients with osteoporosis are vitamin D deficient because of inadequate dietary intake and exposure to sunlight. Click here to learn why Vitamin D is vital for good bone health.
- ADHD prevention in kids
Research shows that kids who regularly eat salmon experience the same brain benefits as their parents. Various studies reveal that feeding salmon to preschool children helps prevent ADHD symptoms and can boost academic performance. So the nutrition in salmon helps children to focus better and remember more. Increasing omega-3 intake, specifically DHA, may improve literacy and behaviour in children with ADHD. Read here to discover the top 13 fish oil benefits proven beyond medicine.
- May benefit weight loss
Consuming salmon frequently may help you lose weight and keep it off. Similar to other high protein foods, it helps regulate the hormones that control appetite and make you feel full. Research also suggests that the omega-3 fats in salmon and other fatty fish pay promote weight loss and decrease belly-fat in obese individuals. Salmon is also fairly low in calories. A 100g serving of farmed salmon only has 206 calories, and wild salmon has even fewer at 182 calories.
- Can help fight inflammation
Many experts agree that inflammation is often the root cause of most chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Several studies indicate that eating more salmon helps reduce markers of inflammation in people at risk for these and other diseases.
- Healthy skin
Due to its exceptional levels of omega-3 fats, eating wild caught salmon may help provide glowing and more supple skin. In addition, the carotenoid anti-oxidants astaxanthin found in salmon can greatly reduce the effects of free radical damage that causes aging. Dr. Perricone, a world renowned dermatologist, recommends his patients consume wild-caught salmon three times a week for more radiant skin.
For more information about how omega 3 fish oil can benefit your health, click here
