Everyone will eat fish at some point, which is part of a healthy and balanced diet. Only vegetarians and vegans will not participate. However, did you know that fish has many health benefits? It is full of good fats and other substances that your body needs.
In this article, we look at the benefits of eating fish, which fish is the healthiest, and how you can get these benefits even if you don't eat fish.
What are the benefits of eating fish?
Eating fish does not only have to be very tasty, but it is also healthy for your body and mind. Did you know that fish contains a lot of good nutrients? Think of omega fatty acids, iodine, iron, and other good minerals and vitamins. In addition, there are also all kinds of good fats and proteins in fish, so that you maintain a healthy body.1. You reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
Although fish is very fatty, it is very good for your heart. This is because the fats in fish are good for your body. Several studies have shown that eating fish regularly can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
2. It is good during development
When you are pregnant, eating fish can have a positive effect on the development of your child. Fish contains many nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are important for the development of your brain and eyes.
3. Eating fish is good for your brain
In addition to helping to develop the brain, fish also keep an adult brain healthy. For example, the consumption of fish is linked to good mental health and a higher level of gray matter (the part of your brain that influences your emotions and memory).
4. It helps against depressive symptoms
Everyone suffers from sadness from time to time, but when you have depression, it can have serious consequences for your health. Omega-3 fatty acids have a positive influence on the receptors in your brain that normally influence emotions so that you will suffer less from depressive symptoms.
5. It improves your sleep rhythm
A vitamin D deficiency can lead to a poor sleep rhythm. Fish generally contains a lot of vitamin D, which can contribute to a better night's sleep without lying awake for a long time.
Which fish is the healthiest to eat?
In principle, all types of fish are healthy to eat, but one is of course better for your health than the other. This often has to do with the fat content and the mercury content. There are also types of fish that contain too many bad fats, making them less good for your heart health.These fish are best to eat:
- salmon
- Mackerel
- Haring
- Tuna
- Trout
- whitefish
- Baars
It is best to avoid these fish:
- tilefish
- Swordfish
- Shark
- king mackerel
How do I get the good substances if I don't eat fish?
If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you do not eat fish, meat, chicken, or other animal products. In the past, it was sometimes said that this was not a healthy way of life, but now it is doable to live a healthy life without animal products. Nevertheless, fish contains many good nutrients that you do not want to miss.
A good solution to get enough omega fatty acids and vitamin D is through omega 3 food supplements and supporting vitamin D supplements. These are available at the drugstore. However, only take supplements in consultation with your doctor, they know best what amount is best for you.