Fish is a nutritious, delicious, and healthy food. Its consumption is preferred before that of red meat. It is rich in protein and provides us with all the amino acids that the body needs.
Especially for seniors it is important to have the right protein intake. They, however, have to come from a quality source like Fish. Salmon in particular is a good source.
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Eating a balanced and healthy diet will offer positive effects on your health, there is no doubt about that. Fish must be present in your weekly meals, combined with vegetables and cereals.
fish is a great source of healthy fat that we need in our food.
Due to its nutritional properties, it is a fundamental food in our diet. The benefits of eating fish are:
Fish Has few calories
As mentioned above, the calorie content of fish is low. About 80 Kcal per 100 grams in the lean ones and up to 200 Kcal in the fatty or blue ones. You have to be careful because, depending on the way you prepare, this will increase.
A very common example is that of hake fillet when it is breaded with flour and fried. So, it is preferred to prepare it in the oven, grilled or steamed.
Offers nutrients for growth
That is why it is indicated for pregnant women, infants, and young children. The protein content of fish is around 20%, although blue and crustaceans have more.
And best of all, they are of high biological value (it has all the essential amino acids). Therefore, it provides what certain stages require. Do not forget to alternate with legumes, cereals, nuts, eggs, and dairy.
Provides calcium
Fish with bones (which are also eaten), such as sardines or anchovies, is a great calcium source. Therefore, it helps in the formation of teeth, to take care of bone health, and in the contraction of muscles. It also serves to clot the blood and prevent diseases such as osteoporosis.
Presents iodine
Both fish and shellfish are an alternative to reduce iodine deficiencies, causing, for example, thyroid diseases and goiter.
In turn, this nutrient is essential during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and growth of the baby in the first months of life. The species that have the most iodine are red mullet, salmon, cod, mussels, tuna, and bonito.
It prevents illnesses
Another benefit of eating fish is that it has many vitamins, especially groups B (1, 2, 3, 12), A and D, and to a lesser extent, E. All of them are a primary factor in protecting the body of certain diseases, especially degenerative ones, such as cancer or atherosclerosis.
They also promote calcium and phosphate absorption in the intestines and stimulate the kidney to do the same.
Protects heart and arteries
Fish contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, between 25 and 50% depending on the species. Omega 3 and 6 that are present in this food help reduce cholesterol and, at the same time, protect the heart and arterial health. It is advisable to consume fish to avoid myocardial infarctions or cardiovascular accidents.
Now that you know the benefits of eating fish, what are you waiting for to incorporate it into your diet? It is a complete food that will undoubtedly bring you great benefits.
My take on the benefits of eating fish
For many years I lived fairly near the ocean and always had plenty of ways to buy fresh fish from my local market.
Now I live more in the country it is a little harder to find fish in my local stores. I can still find them but sometimes I prefer to order them online to make sure they are as fresh as can be.
Eddie Vandam
Eddie Vandam, the voice behind the Senior Citizen Website, is a retired internet marketer and proud senior. With a passion for helping fellow seniors navigate the complexities of aging, Eddie shares his insights on health, independence, products, and enriching hobbies. He’s committed to making senior years both fulfilling and enjoyable. Read more about Eddie Vandam.