Most people know that fish is rich in high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as calcium, iron, selenium, iodine, and vitamins A and D. Regular consumption can provide the human body with many beneficial nutrients, and while not conclusive, there is support for the common expression “eating fish will make you smarter.” Eating it is beneficial to your health; however, some types are harmful to the body. Following are the benefits of eating fish and the kinds to avoid.
Eating fish has many health benefits
Body healing
Fish contain various omega-3 fats such as DHA which helps to reduce the risk of different conditions such as periodontal disease and inflammatory bowel disease. A study published in Sports Medicine shows that vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fatty fish like salmon and albacore, play a big role in post-exercise muscle regeneration and fatigue recovery.
Nourish the brain
DHA is very important for brain development especially during infancy. DHA also plays a role in having a healthy brain as we age. Moderate seafood consumption is linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and this study found that those who consume more seafood had more brain gray matter.
Lower blood lipids
Eating two servings of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as cod, herring, and canned light tuna can decrease triglycerides and decrease the risk of strokes and heart failure. According to this study, omega-3 fatty acids are associated with preventing cardiovascular events.
4 kinds of fish that are bad for your health
Choosing nutritious fish for consumption can ensure your health. However, eating the following four kinds is not the best choice. It is better to avoid eating them as much as possible.
Sashimi
Some ocean fish contain more bacteria and germs, which can easily cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even bacterial poisoning. People with a relatively poor physique should avoid eating raw fish. Even healthy adults should eat as little sashimi as possible. It is better to cook it first.
Rice field eel (Swamp eel)
Many people like to eat rice field eel. The meat is very tender and smooth, with a good taste. However eels like to drill into the soil, and it is easy for them to carry bacteria such as sparganosis and other microorganisms which can cause harm to the human body.
Salted fish
Pickled fish is high in salt content, and consuming it leads to the ingestion of a significant amount of sodium. Eating salted fish often increases the burden on the kidneys. People with high blood pressure need to be especially wary. Salted fish have been found to have a higher content of N-nitrosamines, a known carcinogen.
Cured fish
Cured fish usually refers to marinated fish, and it is different from salted fish. Cured fish is marinated in salt along with other seasonings. Frequent consumption of preserved fish is also harmful to the body. People with high blood pressure should not eat cured fish very often. Cured fish can also contain nitrites, which if eaten regularly can cause cancer.
Translated by: Patty Zhang
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