You Could Live Longer by Eating More Seafood

Heath experts might not be able to point you towards the fountain of youth but they can say with more certainty what you can do to live longer. A recent study released by Harvard University’s school of public health revealed insights into what habits can extend our lives. Eating more seafood is at the top of the list.

The researchers looked at the dietary habits and health outcomes of almost 74,000 adults over 12 years. Comparing and contrasting what the participants ate regularly, they noticed a trend. People who consistently ate low quality food—foods with less nutritional value like processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meats—were more likely to die prematurely. The opposite was also true. People who consistently ate more high quality foods—foods with a higher nutritional value like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and fish—were significantly less likely to die early.

Luckily, they concluded that you don’t have to eat whole foods all of the time to extend your life. The researchers noticed that just swapping out a few low quality foods for quality ones regularly can help you to live longer. For example, you could improve your chances of living longer by getting into the habit of eating a tuna burger instead of a hamburger or replacing steak with a juicy salmon fillet.

The researchers also noticed that seafood was one of the best quality foods. It contributed to more improved health outcomes.

The reason why eating seafood can have such a big impact on your health is because it is high in protein and rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Protein is the building block for your body. You need it to build and repair your skin, bones, cartilage, muscles, and blood. Your body also needs it to produce hormones and make other chemicals and enzymes your body relies on to function. Eating fish provides your body with the protein it needs without the artery clogging fat found in meats like beef or bacon.   

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential amino acids that your body needs to produce hormones that regulate blood clotting and blood vessels. They also help your body regulate genetic functions. Strong evidence suggests that getting enough omega-3 fatty acids:

–        Reduces the risk of developing or suffering from arrhythmia because it helps your heart beat at a healthy pace.

–        Lowers blood pressure and improves blood vessel function reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

–        Aids in prenatal and postnatal neurological development.

–        Reduces inflammation and can alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

There is evidence that suggests getting enough omega-3s may protect against cancer and Alzheimer’s, and help control lupus and eczema. 

Unlike other healthy fats, your body can’t create omega-3s on its own. The only way to get them is through eating foods like fish, nuts, flaxseeds and leafy greens. Of these foods, fish have the highest concentration of omega-3s.

Making a small change in your diet could literally save your life. Eating seafood just once or twice a week can make a big difference in the future. Check out our Pinterest for delicious seafood recipe ideas or stop by our seafood counter to pick up this week’s serving of lifesaving fish!