Asone of the most nutritious foods on Earth, salmon is packed with manyhealth benefits. Salmon is so powerful that it can even reduce therisk of several diseases. It’s versatility and delicious tastemakes it an easy addition to incorporate into your standard diet. Ifyou are looking for a new variety of fish to add to your weekly ormonthly meal prep, check out these 7 amazing health benefits ofsalmon.
Greatsource of Omega-3
Salmonis one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA andDHA. In just one 3.5 ounce portion of wild caught salmon, you benefitfrom 2.3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids. DHA and EPA omega-3 fattyacids have been linked to reduced risk of cancer, decreasedinflammation and blood pressure, and improved cell function.
Packedwith protein
Justas important as omega-3’s is protein, and salmon is a great sourceof it as well. Protein can aid the body in healing after injuries,maintaining muscle mass and increasing bone health. Its recommendedthat each meal of the day should contain at least 20 grams ofprotein, which is provided by a standard serving of salmon.
Maymanages weight control
Becauseof its high protein content, salmon can even help manage your weight.High protein foods can control the hormones that regulate yourappetite. More salmon can make you feel more full, and also increaseyour metabolism. Fatty fish has also been directly linked to reducedbelly fat in people who are overweight.
Protectsbrain health
Researchis now suggesting salmon can even improve your brain health. Fish oiland fatty fish may have the potential to decrease depression andanxiety, reduce risks of dementia and slow memory loss related toage. Recent studies have shown that consuming fatty fish twice a weekcan slow age-related memory loss by up to 13%.
Highin potassium
Wildsalmon contains 18% of the recommended daily intake of potassium. Infact, salmon has more potassium than a banana, which only contains10% of the recommended daily amount. Potassium can control bloodpressure, reduce risk of stroke, and decreased water retention.
Containsimportant antioxidants
Astaxanthin,which gives salmon the red pigment its known for, is an antioxidantthat has the potential to reduce heart disease by increasing goodcholesterol levels and decreasing bad cholesterol. This antioxidantcompound is believed to work in tandem with the omega-3 fatty acidsin salmon to safeguard the brain and nervous systems. Additionally,astaxanthin has been shown to have skin-related benefits as well. Astudy revealed that this antioxidant can improve skin elasticity andoverall skin hydration, with a possibility to even repair damagedskin.
Lowin fat
One standard serving of salmon is only about 200 calories. For a fatty fish, salmon has a very low amount of calories, and is very low in saturated fats, while still maintaining high levels of nutrients. This means you can consume more salmon, guilt-free, while reaping the many health benefits this delicious fish comes with.
