Fish Is More Than Just Brain Food

It’s no secret that fresh fish is one of the best foods that people can eat for positive health results. It's low in fat, high in protein and contains other important nutrients.  However, millions of people don't have enough fish in his or her diet and are lacking important nutrients.

Fish oil contains omega-3 essential fatty acids that are beneficial to health. While there is no recommended daily allowance, the Food and Nutrition Board suggests total fat intake ought to be in the range of 20% to 30% of calories. Among the better sources of Omega-3 include Alaskan wild salmon, Arctic char and Atlantic mackeral. You are able to prepare fish in a number of ways including baking, grilling and broiling. Frying fish or topping it with rich sauces will not only negate the health rewards, nonetheless it increases the exposure to cardiovascular disease.

Also, eating too much fish is not advised.  This is due to contaminants from mercury and other industrial chemicals from ocean pollution and poor farming practices.  Whenever possible, it is best to source wild-caught sustainable fish instead of farm raised. 

If you don't eat fish for any particular reason you can still obtain the benefits.  According to the National Institutes of Health, fish oil supplements provide a number of health benefits like improving the heart and circulatory system. Indeed, research indicates that fish oil does lower the bad cholesterol and may prevent heart disease and stroke. A primary reason that fish oil is often called brain food is because it has helped many individuals with Alzheimer’s, ADHD and other brain conditions.

There is a sign that fish oil can promote weight loss. Preliminary research does show that eating fish decreases blood sugar levels and has improved weight loss in some overweight individuals. Because of this, some fish oil supplements can decrease weight with exercise.

In general, fish oil supplements are safe when taken as directed. However, those who have seafood allergies may also be allergic to fish oil supplements. Other possible unwanted effects include halitosis, heartburn and nausea. Taking fish oil supplements with food can reduce possible unwanted effects. Also, overdosing can cause a stroke. So be sure you go over dosing instructions and check with a health care professional.