From the Kitchen
November 2013
From the Kitchen | Which Fish Are The Best For You?
Written by Claire Keylock
It’s well established that fish is a super-food when it comes to your health. Most fish is high in Omega 3 fatty acids, which research shows is beneficial for both brain and body. This wonder-nutrient has been cited in helping with conditions ranging from ADHD to arthritis, and a whole host of other ailments too. Pacific Catch offers fresh fish in a whole host of dishes that are delicious but different. Whether you enjoy your fish seared sushi style, BBQ glazed or simply grilled and served alongside avocado and tomato – spilling the natural aromas of the sea, at Pacific Catch you’ll find a dish that will set your taste buds tingling.
Still, lots of us don’t eat enough fish – or aren’t consuming it in the best possible way. So which fish are the best for you, and what are the benefits to your health?
Salmon
Salmon is cited as beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory joint conditions such as osteoarthritis as it contains bio-active peptides which regulate, stabilize and increase collagen synthesis. It also contains vitamin D, the deficiency of which is linked to cancer, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and more. Due to its high levels of Omega 3, eating salmon twice or three times every week helps protect you against high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. Salmon is truly a super-food; due to the DHA it possesses (one of the Omega 3 fatty acids), it has been reported to reduce cognitive decline, depression and even hostility. Thirty percent of the brain is made of DHA, showing exactly how important this fatty acid is when it comes to brain development and function. In fact, according to KwikMed, giving young children regular doses of fish oil, including the DHA found in salmon, can improve school performance in the fields of numeracy, reading and writing.
Oysters
Like other shellfish, Oysters are lean and high in iodine, iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, and copper. Oysters in particular however, are renowned for their ability to raise testosterone levels, which is why they’re known as a natural aphrodisiac. This is also beneficial to men as it helps protect against prostate cancer.
Shrimp
If you’re prone to oral problems, eat more shrimp. These tiny pink morsels of deliciousness have anti-inflammatory properties that have been used to reduce swelling of the gums. They’re also a great source of vitamin B12, which is known to aid brain function and blood cell formation. Not a bad addition to your entrée is it?
Calamari
Fried calamari is absolutely delicious and the fish itself boasts a variety of nutrients, including B vitamins, riboflavin and niacin. These aid digestion, help maintain good vision and help keep skin glowing. However, the act of frying the calamari adds high levels of fat to the meal so make sure you don’t overindulge in this delicacy – instead eat as a treat every so often, or for a special occasion, and it’ll be all the more enjoyable.
Tuna
Eaten as a steak, tuna is a “beefy” fish. It boasts many of the same health benefits as salmon and can be used to create an array of different dishes. It’s a lean fish, so eating it is good for dieters – plus it’s a great convenience food in a can form. At Pacific Catch tuna is more exciting than your staple larder food; it’s served seared in salads and spiced in sushi. Deliciously different!
Crab
Another one for the weight watchers, crab meat is a low calorie food, with less than 2 grams of fat in a four ounce serving and just 98 calories. Crabs also contain chromium, which works alongside the body’s insulin to regulate its blood glucose levels. Crab tastes fantastic when served simply dressed and teamed with avocado in a salad.
Fish is a great way to get more vitamins and minerals into your body, helping you look and feel amazing. The government health department recommend at least two servings of fish a week to help you stay healthy. It’s good to know that by visiting Pacific Catch you’ll not only have plenty of choice of fish, but that it is cooked to perfection in a variety of divinely different recipes, all inspired by cultures around the world.
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