Some families enjoy seafood, and others do not, but there are some very important reasons that everyone should enjoy seafood through the week. One might not know that fish is like a multivitamin for our brains? Read on to learn more about the benefits of seafood and fish, and how they can be incorporated into more meals.
Healthy Tip Tuesday is brought to you in partnership with Trinity Health Systems.
Fish and shellfish supply the nutrients, vitamins, and omega-3s essential for brain development, strong bones, a healthy heart, and immune system. This time of year, many people are looking for ways to “boost” their immune system. Good nutrition is extremely important in supporting a strong immune system, which can offer protection from some chronic health diseases. Unfortunately, even though eating fish is like a multivitamin for our brain, almost 90% of Americans, both children, and adults do not meet the recommendation for seafood!
Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend eating fish as part of a healthy eating pattern. It is recommended to eat at least 8 ounces of seafood, based on a 2,000 calorie diet. For those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, the recommendations are to consume between 8 and 12 ounces per week of a variety of seafood from choices that are lower in mercury.
Eat a variety of seafood: Fish that is rich in omega-3s include tuna, salmon, trout, and sardines. Grilling and broiling are great cooking methods and don’t forget to add some spices to enhance the flavor.
Keep seafood on hand: Be sure to stock the pantry with canned seafood. Canned salmon and tuna are tasty, healthy, and easy to prepare. Keep frozen fish in the freezer for an easy meal. Kids love fish sticks!
Buy budget-friendly: It doesn’t have to be expensive to eat seafood. Check out weekly ads and sales, and buy in bulk. Try buying a few pounds of a favorite fish and freezing it into individual serving sizes for future use.
Put it on a salad or a sandwich: Top a salad with canned tuna or salmon or use it for sandwiches in place of deli meats. Cook extra to use the leftovers for another meal or two.
Want more tips visit seafoodnutrition.org.
