The world of health and wellbeing is really exciting to me, especially in terms of what I decide to eat. Since I was a child I’ve always known that fish is the healthy choice. But it wasn’t until I spent a lot of time ‘in the industry’ that I really understood why it’s the healthy choice.

So, I thought it might be interesting to investigate and share the health benefits, fish by fish.

For this blog post I’ll start with your favourite, and mine, the salmon.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Ok – this is the big one.

Your body can’t make Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA + EPA if you’re being geeky), so you have to eat them. And the benefits are significant: they are linked to an improvement in the functioning of arteries, a reduction in the risk of cancer, lowering of blood pressure and decreased inflammation. That covers benefits for a huge spectrum of risk factors linked to diseases and illnesses ranging from strokes, to heart attacks, cancer and eczema.

*Round of applause for the salmon*

And we have a long way to go…

B vitamins

There are a whole range of B vitamins, and salmon is high in most, if not all, of them.

B vitamins help the body produce new, healthy cells and protect and optimise existing cells. They can help lower cholesterol levels, lower the risk of heart disease, help with hormone production, maintain blood sugar levels, keep your skin looking good, help balance mood and energy levels. The list goes on.

Protein

Salmon – in fact fish in general – is an excellent source of protein, which helps to maintain muscles, aids in the healing process and keeps your bones healthy.

In addition to that, a high protein diet leads to increased glucose production which should help you to feel full for longer.

Minerals

Salmon is a source of the essential minerals selenium and potassium.

Selenium aids in the normal function of the immune system, the thyroid gland, normal sperm production and in the maintenance of healthy hair and nails.

Potassium is an essential mineral that helps to maintain normal blood pressure, muscle function and the nervous system.

And finally, for today, Astaxanthin

I had to look this one up. Astaxanthin is an antioxidant from the carotenoid group – it’s responsible for making salmon red. In fact, salmon has the highest naturally-occurring concentration of astaxanthin anywhere in the animal world.

Antioxidants protect against free radical damage, long talked about in the world of anti-ageing skincare, but also applicable to cancer treatment, endurance, joint pain and high blood pressure.

So, there you have it. A few of the many health benefits of salmon. Delicious and delightful. 

This is by no means a suggestion for you to swap your medicines for sushi, but merely a congratulatory pat on the back for treating your taste buds to that California Maki last week. Maybe it’s time for another…