It’s no secret that we love fish. However, we love to talk about how some fish are so packed with nutrients that they are considered by nutritionists around the globe as a “superfish.” The health benefits go above and beyond the average serving of protein. Let’s examine why salmon is considered by many practitioners and nutritionists alike as a true “superfood.”
What is it About Salmon?
To start, salmon is a nutrient dense food that is rich in a protective antioxidant called astaxanthin. It is an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals including potassium, selenium, and vitamin B12. Add to this the high content of omega-3 fatty acids in salmon and we have a “superfood.”
The Ultimate Catch
Two servings of salmon a week can have quite a few surprising long and short-term benefits. Like many other fish species, salmon can reduce your risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. It is a great source of protein that can help keep you fuller for longer. In fact, just one four ounce serving has 26 grams of protein, which can help you fill up, curb cravings, and stay satisfied for less saturated fat than meat.
In addition, salmon has three key ingredients that are linked to improving brain function, cognition, and neurological health. These include: selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12.
If this isn’t enough to convince you of salmon’s “superfood” classification, keep in mind that salmon is also able to help improve serum cholesterol, a key indicator of cardiovascular disease risk.
Salmon may also be a good menu choice if you have concerns about your bone health as with osteoporosis. The combination of nutrients found in fatty fish, polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin D, have also been linked to improved bone health. This is especially important for so many of us in the northeast who are commonly vitamin D deficient.
Add all of these benefits together and salmon is quite possibly the perfect food. Pair a meal of fresh salmon with veggies, and nutritionists will rave at the nutrients and minerals that are on your plate.
Check out our salmon recipes on our blog and the full array of our fish products on our page.
