Fish and seafood are delicious any time of the year, but February might just be the best month to eat seafood dishes for a variety of reasons.
Seafood Provides Vital Nutrients
Vitamin D deficiency is a major problem during February and the rest of the colder months. It’s a month that sees a lot less sunlight than most other times of the year, which is the primary source of vitamin D. That’s why it’s a great time to incorporate seafood into meal and menu planning. No other food source naturally contains vitamin D to the extent that fish and seafood do.
Fatty fish, like salmon, are especially good for combating vitamin D deficiency. There are lots of recipes perfect for winter that incorporate salmon into a hardy meal. A great example is five-ingredient sheet pan salmon. Drizzling the salmon, green beans, and baby potatoes in Italian dressing provides delicious flavor and lemon adds some brightness.
American Heart Month
February is American Heart Month, so it’s the perfect time to think of ways to prevent heart disease. Thankfully, seafood is fantastic for doing just that! Eating fish is good for the heart, as the omega-3s lower triglyceride levels and reduce plaque buildup. This is why eating fish like salmon, tilapia, and flounder is recommended by the American Heart Association to prevent heart disease and other cardiovascular issues. The average person should try to eat two, 3 oz. portions of fish per week to maintain good cardiovascular health.
Try incorporating these healthy salmon recipes for National Heart Month. The easy-baked chipotle salmon in particular is packed full of flavor with every mouthful, making it a quick and delicious way to warm up a cold February evening.
Lent Begins in February
Many who observe Lent abstain from certain foods – specifically meat – on Fridays. Fish is the perfect meal solution for those who observe Lent. It offers a healthy source of proteins, minerals, and fatty acids during a time of year when vitamin deficiencies are common.
February is a great time to make fish a staple. Whether you are staying heart-healthy or trying to make up for a lack of sunlight, incorporating fish is a must this month!
