In recent years, certain foods have gained reputations as so-called ‘superfoods.’ Superfoods are those said to offer incredible benefits to senior health. If any food really did deserve the label, it would be salmon. Salmon is truly one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. Read on to discover the five remarkable reasons why salmon is so, so good for you.
-
Better Eye Health
Salmon owes much of its remarkable health value to its huge totals of omega-3 fatty acids. One of the most beneficial nutrients in existence, omega-3 fatty acids can be found in many fish, but particularly so in salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids, which can only be obtained through diet, are a keystone to a healthy, properly functioning body. In the eyes specifically, omega-3 fatty acids have been found to lower risk for age-related macular degeneration. Chronic dry eye can also be relieved via intake of these valuable fatty acids.
-
A Good Source of Protein
Protein is an essential building blocks for the cells in the human body, particularly in such tissues as skin, muscle, and hair. Maintaining or building muscle is dependent on protein, and skin and immune system health rely on protein as well. As such, consuming high-quality sources of protein is a critical part of consuming a good diet. Luckily, salmon provides a large amount of quality protein. Salmon protein is easily absorbed in the body and does not contain the carcinogens found in many meat proteins.
-
Healthier Cardiovascular System
Eating salmon has a variety of positive consequences for cardiovascular health. Salmon consumption results in lower risk of heart attack, heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. These effects likely occur because salmon has such high totals of omega-3 fatty acids (important to proper heart functioning) and selenium. An antioxidant, the mineral selenium is thought to help protect from heart disease.
-
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The omega-3 fatty acids so prevalent in salmon are believed to reduce inflammation in the entire body. In addition, salmon contains a kind of protein molecule known as bioactive peptides which appear to help support joint health by fighting against inflammation. Salmon’s anti-inflammatory capacities are important since inflammation plays a role in many chronic conditions, including inflammatory bowel diseases and autoimmune disorders such as arthritis.
-
Improved Brain Health
Salmon’s best benefit of all might be the way it can significantly benefit cognitive function and brain health in general. Salmon derives its brain-friendly qualities primarily from the fish’s stores of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are critical to brain functioning, acting to maintain brain cell membrane health and supporting communication between cells in the brain. Omega-3 fatty acids can even slow or reverse certain harmful, age-related losses in brain volume. Salmon has also been associated with a slower rate of age-related cognitive declines, and some research shows it can even treat depression.
Besides being incredibly healthy, salmon is also tasty, versatile, and generally quite easy to prepare. From fresh filets to canned or smoked salmon, this nutritious fish can be found in a variety of forms. The health benefits of salmon are just as numerous!
