Lent 2024:  7 Best Fishes To Eat For Health
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Eating fish can support your overall health and weight loss objectives as long as you select the proper variety. Compared to other protein sources like chicken or beef, most fish are high in protein yet low in calories. 

Foods high in protein can improve fullness and reduce overindulgence during or after meals. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids, a vital ingredient that supports heart and brain health, are abundant in many types of fish.

For everyone, but especially for those who are following a diet, good nutrition is crucial. Experts advise consuming fish to maintain cardiovascular health, according to the USDA. Harvard School of Public Health states that just one fish meal every week can lower your risk by forty percent. Fish's fatty acids help lower inflammation and insulin resistance in the body, two factors that are key causes of coronary heart disease. 

But keep in mind that certain fish are far better than others at controlling health and preventing diseases, so choose your fish carefully.  These are seven varieties of fish that you can include in your diet during Lent. 

7 Best Fishes To Boost Your Health

1. Salmon

The reason salmon tops the list is that it contains a lot of omega-3 fats, which are considered "healthy" fats that can lower blood cell inflammation and improve cholesterol. Numerous other health advantages have also been linked to salmon's omega-3 fatty acids. Heart, brain, and eye health are among these advantages. Salmon is also excellent for controlling blood sugar levels and enhancing the body's insulin-responsiveness. Like other fish, salmon can be prepared in a variety of healthful ways, such as poaching, broiling, or baking.

2. Herring

For a variety of reasons, herring is a great option for those with diabetes. It is among the best food sources of vitamin D, first and foremost. It appears that vitamin D is not just for healthy bones and teeth. Nowadays, it's believed that a lack of vitamin D may have a role in a number of illnesses, including diabetes and multiple sclerosis. Herring is also a great source of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). These fats aid in maintaining healthy brain function and preventing heart disease. They also work well to lessen the body's inflammation.

3. Tilapia

It's simple to locate fresh or frozen fillets of tilapia, a low-fat, high-protein fish that's even simpler to prepare. Because tilapia contains a high content of fibre and no carbohydrates, it can help lower the risk of arterial hypertension in diabetics. Vitamins C and E are two more essential nutrients that are abundant in tilapia and are beneficial to the body. Selenium, which is also included in tilapia, can normalise or balance blood glucose levels. It's advisable to incorporate other fish species in your diet as well, especially those that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, even if tilapia is a wonderful option for diabetics.

4. Sardines 

Sardines in a can are a healthy option for people with health problems. Sardines, like salmon, are inexpensive, have lower mercury labelling than larger fish, and are high in protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Sardines are a tasty addition to other recipes or eaten on their own.

Because of their high calcium and vitamin D content, sardines are a great meal to include in your diet. Just make sure to check labels to identify salt-free brands. For a more vibrant flavour, consider cooking fresh sardines if you haven't grown tired of the canned kind. Additionally delicious with pasta, stews, and soups are sardines.

5. Pacific Or Atlantic Mackerel

A six-ounce portion of Pacific mackerel, a fatty fish, provides roughly 3.2 grams of omega-3 fatty acids. This high-fat content can increase levels of HDL (good) cholesterol while lowering triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, which block arteries.

In addition, mackerel is a good source of niacin, vitamin B12, selenium, iron, and riboflavin. While fresh Pacific mackerel is sometimes available, it is primarily found in grocery shops in cans. Fresh Atlantic mackerel is readily available and has a low mercury content. King mackerel is a fish heavy in mercury, so be careful adding it to your diet; eating excess may harm you instead.

6. Cod

Cod has been proven to be beneficial in a number of various medical issues and is a great low-calorie source of protein. It also contains a variety of highly vital components. Cod is a white fish, just like tilapia, but it produces a somewhat harder fillet that works well with almost any cooking technique. Because it is a strong source of blood-thinning omega-3 fatty acids and an excellent supply of vitamins B12 and B6, cod is a great choice for cardiovascular health. These two vitamins are necessary to maintain low homocysteine levels, which are hazardous molecules. Elevated homocysteine levels can significantly raise the risk of heart attack and stroke because they directly damage blood vessel walls.

7. Tuna

The last fantastic low-calorie seafood option for your diet is tuna. You can get protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and other essential micronutrients from tuna. Since you won't have to worry about a surge in your blood sugar, tuna is a heart-healthy option because many diabetics deal with increased blood cholesterol. This is because it has negligible to no saturated fat and carbs. You can enjoy nutritious tuna sandwiches by substituting non-fat mayonnaise for regular and using whole-grain bread to avoid refined carbs. Swap out mayo for cottage cheese for an even healthier option. It offers a source of calcium and protein while reducing your fat intake.

Incorporating a variety of these fish into your diet can significantly boost your health. They provide essential omega-3s for brain and heart health, along with other valuable nutrients like vitamin D, selenium, and calcium. Remember, choose wild-caught whenever possible. Enjoy all these fishes during Lent and make the most out of these, enhancing your health.