There are numerous reasons why health & wellbeing should be high on your agenda this year. We’re all dealing with issues as a result of lockdown, and although some situations are out of our immediate control, focusing on and improving your physical and mental health & wellbeing is a great way to encourage good coping mechanisms. Incorporating fish in your diet opens a whole host of health benefits, and here we take a look at the top 10 reasons why fish is a fabulously nutritious food and a great way help your mind and body thrive during these difficult times.
Let’s face it … January’s been tough! The mornings are dark, evenings are dark, and to top it all off we’re living in the midst of a global pandemic. However we dress it up – times are hard for all of us and maybe we’ve let our health & wellbeing slip due to the stresses and strains the past year has brought us. But all is not lost! Our bodies are very clever, and if we fuel them with nutritious foods, they can give us the strength to face even the toughest of challenges!
We all know about the benefits of eating our 5 a day – be that in fruit or vegetable format – but do we know about the wonderful benefits that eating fish can do to our physical appearance, metal health & wellbeing, energy levels and even our grey matter? Let’s find out!
Fish really is an unsung super-food, so here’s our top ten list of reasons why fish should be a staple in our diets and all the great benefits it can offer:
- It helps the body create oxytocin (aka the ‘hug’ hormone): The much-needed ‘hug hormone’ comes from fish rich in magnesium. Research has shown that we need a good level of magnesium for oxytocin to work effectively – it’s also found in leafy green vegetables, beans and nuts which are delicious ingredients which can be found in our delicious salmon recipe here
- It gives us energy: Fish is rich in vitamin B12 – an important vitamin to keep nerve and blood cells in tip top condition. B12 can prevent anaemia, a vitamin sometimes lacking in plant-heavy diets, so by incorporating fish into your meals it can provide that much needed boost in energy levels
- It’s good for your heart: Fish is good for your heart as it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids which help balance blood vessels thereby reducing cholesterol in the arteries, plus it’s rich in potassium which is known to lower blood pressure – so when paired together omega-3 and potassium have an anti-inflammatory effect to the cardiovascular system reducing the risk of stroke and heart attacks
- It’s very clever: Fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids which are responsible for its well-deserved reputation as ‘brain food’, not only is it great for keeping our grey matter going during these uncertain times, but fish – especially salmon – is also rich in the protective antioxidant, astaxanthin, and is packed full of vitamins and minerals including potassium, selenium and vitamin B12
- Fish can help with weight loss: Fish is low in fat content and rich in protein, it’s also full of manganese, zinc, vitamin C and selenium – which together boost the immune system and can help with weight loss
- It makes you look good! Fish is packed full of vitamin B – great for strengthening bones and boosting your complexion – so not only does it taste good, but it also makes you feel and look good!
- It helps you sleep better: Research shows that if you have trouble falling or staying asleep, eating more fish may help you snooze better for longer. Fish has a high concentration of vitamin D, which aids sleep, so why not try this delicious fish supper and enjoy a restful night’s sleep to boot
- Fish can help treat liver disease: Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish have been shown to help treat liver disease. Research has showed that omega-3 helps break down triglycerides and fatty acids in the liver – lowering the risk of fatty liver disease
- Fish can help prevent asthma in children: Fish is a great source of protein for children and can help their energy levels stay tip top (sorry parents!). Studies also show that regular fish consumption is linked to a 24% lower risk of asthma in children – a common disease characterised by chronic inflammation of the airways
- It can help your body recover after a workout: Fish contains nutrients that are extremely beneficial in helping the body recover from fatigue and improve muscle regeneration. Research shows that fish packed omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D can play a big role in post-exercise muscle regeneration and fatigue recovery. Why not try this light and tasty cod dish after your next workout session
There really is no better time to boost your fish intake or start experimenting with varieties you’ve never tried before. The Seafood by Sykes #FitWithFish box will help you create 12-14 pre-prepared delicious meals. Each box is delivered within 24 hours (if ordered by 1pm) and contains the highest quality frozen fish including four tuna loin steaks, four salmon portions, 200g cooked and peeled king prawns and two frozen-at-sea cod loins.
You can order your #FitWithFish box here and if you sign up to our newsletter you’ll receive a 10% discount code too!
