10 Surprising Facts About the Nutritional Value of Seafood
Seafood is known for being tasty and an excellent source of protein. However, there is more to seafood than delicious flavors and protein. Here are ten surprising facts about the nutritional value of seafood:
1. Provides Essential Nutrients
Most seafood is packed with essential nutrients like protein, omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. For instance, fatty fish like salmon, trout, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for brain and heart health.
2. Low in Saturated Fats
Compared to other protein sources, seafood is low in saturated fats. That means seafood can be a healthy alternative for people looking to reduce their intake of saturated fats, which can negatively impact heart and overall health.
3. Good for Brain Health
Seafood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for brain health. Some studies have also linked consuming fish and other seafood to lower rates of depression, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease.
4. Beneficial for Heart Health
The omega-3 fatty acids and the low levels of saturated fats in seafood also make it a great food choice for improving heart health, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
5. Promotes Healthy Skin
The nutrients found in seafood such as selenium and Vitamin E, can help promote healthy skin, reduce inflammation, and protect against free radical damage.
6. High in Protein
Seafood is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, growth, and development. Some types of seafood like shrimp, crab, and scallops are particularly high in protein, making them ideal for muscle building and recovery.
7. Good for Eye Health
Some seafood, particularly fatty fish such as tuna and salmon contain high levels of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help maintain good eye health and decrease the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
8. Can Lower Risks of Certain Cancers
According to some studies, consuming seafood may help reduce the risk of certain cancers such as breast, colon, and prostate cancer. This could be due to the anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties present in some types of seafood.
9. Lowers Inflammation
The omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood help lower systemic inflammation that can contribute to many chronic diseases, including allergies, asthma, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis.
10. Boosts Immunity
Seafood is rich in vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D and selenium that play a key role in strengthening the immune system. Consuming seafood can, therefore, help boost your resistance to illnesses and infections.
In conclusion, seafood is not just delicious but also comes with numerous health benefits that make it an excellent food choice. However, when choosing seafood, it’s important to pay attention to the sources and types of seafood to ensure that they are safe and healthy for consumption.
