Benefits of Eating Salmon

Salmon is one of the most popular fish in the U.S.A. It’s delicious taste and satisfyingly dense and tender texture aren’t the only reasons why we are wild about this fish. It is also full of beneficial nutrients making it a smart choice for a healthy diet. These are the top 6 benefits of eating salmon.

1. Full of Potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral that your body needs for your heart to keep beating. It helps control your blood pressure, reduces the risk of stroke and prevents water retention. If you aren’t a fan of bananas, you might be happy to learn that 1 serving of salmon has more potassium than a banana.

2. Loaded with B Vitamins

B vitamins work together in your body to perform a wide range of functions from controlling inflammation and protecting the health of your heart and brain to turning food into energy and repairing DNA. Salmon is loaded with 7 essential B vitamins: vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6, vitamin B9 (folic acid), and vitamin B12.

3. Excellent Source of High-Quality Protein

Your body needs protein to build muscles, prevent muscle loss, protect your bones and heal after an injury. High protein foods also help to regulate the hormones in your body that control your appetite and send signals to your brain when you are full. Studies suggest, eating protein rich foods may increase your metabolic rate. These are the reasons why a protein rich diet can be beneficial for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality, heart-healthy protein.

4. Good Source of Astaxanthin Antioxidant

The red coloring in salmon comes from astaxanthin which is an antioxidant in the carotenoid family. Research suggests that astaxanthin can reduce the risk of developing heart disease because it increases levels of good cholesterol (HDL) in your body and lowers your levels of bad cholesterol (LDL). It may also protect your nervous system and brain from inflammation. Another study found that digesting astaxanthin regularly can improve skin elasticity and hydration in people with sun-damaged skin. Salmon, especially sockeye salmon, provide your body with this beneficial antioxidant.

5. Rich in Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that your body uses to protect the health of your bones. Studies have shown that it may also improve thyroid function and reduce the risk of developing cancer. Salmon is full with this valuable mineral that is hard to get into your diet.

6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that your body needs. Studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids from fish, like salmon, may have a wide range of health benefits including reducing the risk of heart disease, protecting brain health (especially as you age), decreasing
inflammation and lowering blood pressure. Salmon is packed with these heart healthy fatty acids.

If you were looking for more reasons to love salmon, you have six more! Swing by City Fish Market to find fresh salmon to bake a healthy, delicious meal tonight. Check out our Pinterest for recipe ideas!