Seafood is a beloved and delicious source of nutrition for people all over the world. Whether you prefer fish, shrimp, crab, or any other type of seafood, it’s important to understand some key things about this food group.
This article will explore five things to know about seafood.
Facts to Know About Seafood
Seafood Is A Great Source Of Protein And Other Important Nutrients
The lean protein in seafood is great for your metabolism and your immune system and helps you put on muscle. Seafood is an excellent source of protein and a wide variety of other beneficial elements. Omega-3s, in particular, are crucial for heart and brain health and have been linked to many other health benefits.
Several Varieties Of Seafood Are Highly Contaminated With Pollutants Like Mercury
While seafood can be a healthy part of a balanced diet, it’s important to be aware that some types of seafood may contain high levels of mercury and other contaminants. These include larger predatory fish like swordfish, sharks, and king mackerel, which are more likely to accumulate mercury and other toxins in their bodies over time.
Limiting intake of certain seafood is recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or small children.
Sustainable Seafood Is Important For The Health Of Our Oceans
Overfishing and other unsustainable practices have put many fish and other seafood species at risk of extinction or serious decline. That’s why it’s important to choose seafood that has been sustainably harvested, using methods that minimize harm to the environment and protect the health of fish populations.
Choose seafood that has been awarded a seal of approval from a respectable organization, such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC).
Proper Handling And Storage Are Crucial For Food Safety
Like any food, seafood can be vulnerable to contamination if not handled and stored properly, leading to foodborne illnesses like bacterial infections or parasitic diseases. To minimize the risk of contamination, always purchase seafood from a reputable supplier and store it at the proper temperature. Be sure to cook fish to the appropriate core temperature, which varies with the kind of seafood being cooked.
Seafood Can Be Prepared In A Wide Variety Of Delicious Ways
One of the great things about seafood is that it can be prepared in various ways, from simple grilled fish to complex seafood stews and curries. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just starting to explore this food group, there are endless possibilities for creating delicious and nutritious meals using seafood. Some popular seafood preparation methods include grilling, poaching, baking, frying, and steaming.
Benefits of Eating Seafood
Rich In Nutrients
Essential nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B12 and D, zinc, iron, & selenium may all be found in seafood. Getting enough of these nutrients has been linked to better cognitive performance, lower inflammation, and better skin and hair. You can buy seafood from a wholesale seafood distributor.
Promotes Heart Health
Eating seafood can help lower the risk of heart disease. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can help reduce inflammation and lower triglycerides, fats in the blood that can increase the risk of heart disease.
Lowers The Risk Of Cancer
Some studies have found that eating seafood may help lower the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast, colon, and prostate cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish have anti-inflammatory characteristics that may help lower cancer risk.
Downsides of Eating Seafood
Environmental Concerns
Overfishing, pollution, and climate change can all hurt seafood populations and the quality of the seafood itself.
Cost
High-quality seafood can be expensive, making it difficult for some people to include it in their diets regularly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, seafood is a nutritious and delicious food group offering many health benefits. However, it’s important to be aware of potential contaminants and to choose sustainably harvested seafood whenever possible. Proper handling and preparation can also help minimize foodborne illness risk.
Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or just getting started, there are endless possibilities for incorporating this versatile food group into your diet.
