Why is Fish Important in Our Diet?

Fish are a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals that you need for a long, healthy life. Making fish a regular part of your diet is great for your brain, heart, and joints. That’s why the American Heart Association and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend eating at least 2 servings of fish every week. If heart disease or mental decline runs in your family, making fish a regular part of your diet can reduce your risks.

Why is fish so good for you?

Fish are a healthful source of lean protein.

Protein is an essential building block for your body. Eating protein doesn’t just grow, repair and build your muscles.

 

It also helps your body make hormones, enzymes and other important body chemicals. It uses protein to build and repair your tissues, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage. Fish are an excellent source of lean protein that’s low in calories and unhealthy fats.

Fish are a rich source of vitamins and minerals.

It’s tough to get enough Vitamin D during Connecticut’s winters. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and fight off disease. Having a vitamin D deficiency has been linked to many health conditions including heart disease, weight gain, depression, cancer and more. Fish is one of the only dietary sources of this essential vitamin. There is a long list of additional vitamins and nutrients in fish. The list includes calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, potassium and vitamin B2. Studies suggest that getting these vital nutrients through healthy food sources, like fish, is more beneficial than taking a supplement.

Fish contain Omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that your body can’t produce on its own. Studies suggest that getting enough Omega-3s can reduce your risk of heart disease and mental decline as you age. Most Americans don’t get even half as much as they need. You can change that by eating fish twice a week!

Fish are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Popular, fatty fish like salmon and fresh tuna are especially rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.

How Can You Make Fish a Regular Part of Your Diet?

Even though New England is known for its great seafood, lots of people haven’t made it at home. Overcoming that hurdle is the first step towards making it a regular part of your diet.

Once you learn how quick and easy it is to make a delicious fish dinner, you’ll want to eat it twice a week. You can use it as a substitute for other meats in tacos, pasta, and other popular dishes. If the thought of picking up fresh fish from a seafood counter is intimidating, stop by City Fish Market! Our friendly, educated staff are happy to answer questions and take extra time with new customers. You can find dozens of helpful tips for ordering and cooking seafood on our blog. Check out our Home Cooking Fish Guide to get started! Or try out our recipe for tuna salad with fresh, grilled tuna! Parents love our list of Kid-Friendly Seafood recipes.