To a lot of people, fish is rarely on the menu. To some, it’s never on the menu. Which is sad because fish is such a versatile food. There are so many different types of fish, ways to cook fish, and things to pair fish with. The flavors are some of the best, and the calories are some of the least (or at least for proteins). As strong advocates for fish and seafood in general, we really think you should give fish extra consideration the next time you go shopping for groceries - trust us, it’ll be worth it!

All the Reasons: Benefits of Eating Fish

And one (or several) of the reasons why it’ll be worth it is because of all of the benefits of eating fish! The health benefits of eating fish range, from improving the health of your heart to giving you clearer skin. Fish has a lot of properties that can help 1.) increase the longevity of your life, and 2.) increase the quality of your life. Below, we have outlined 7 different health benefits of eating fish. Check it out!

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Fish contains a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, essential fats your body can’t make on its own. Omega-3s have been linked to a numerous amount of cardiovascular health benefits, including lowering your blood pressure and triglyceride levels, reducing the risk of heart disease, as well as minimizing the risk of blood clots, strokes, and heart attacks. Although omega-3s are found in many different types of fish, fatty fish tend to have larger amounts.

2. Improves Brain Health

As another big health benefit of eating fish, this seafood has been linked to boosting brain health. It’s expected that as you age, you may experience mild mental decline. However, omega-3s have been connected to actually slow this rate of decline, as well as produce more gray matter in your brain, something which is important for both memory and emotion. Similarly related, it’s shown that eating fish regularly may also decrease your risk of depression as well as Alzheimer’s and dementia.

3. Natural Aid in Development

Omega-3s are also great sources of nutrients that are important for development during infancy and early childhood, particularly in assisting the development of the brain and vision. However, for women looking to consume fish during pregnancy, it’s best to monitor your consumption of fish as well as to make sure that you choose fish low in mercury – as fish high in mercury has been linked to developmental issues during early human development.

4. Provides Better Sleep

Having trouble sleeping? Well, this one's for you. Another benefit of eating fish is better sleep. Research has shown that nutrients in fish, such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein, may be linked to promoting a healthier sleep cycle. These nutrients and vitamins help produce serotonin, which can help with falling asleep. For those who are bogged down by insomnia, you should consider including fish as part of your weekly diet.

5. Builds Your Immune System

Fish can also help build your immune system – another great benefit of eating fish. Omega-3s have been linked to reducing inflammation and can help build your body’s overall protection. Pair that with exercise and some good sleep, and you’ve got yourself a pretty healthy lifestyle.

6. Beautifies Your Appearance

I bet you didn’t think fish could help you look good. Well, look again. As previously mentioned in the benefit above, the acids found in fish are good for reducing inflammation –even the inflammation in your skin. Omega-3s are great in fighting acne and providing a clearer complexion and healthier skin. But that’s not all. Omega-3s have also been shown to help you grow healthier hair, by strengthening the strands and promoting growth – which can help hair loss. Another amazing health benefit of eating fish!

7. Natural Source of Vitamins & Nutrients

Again, fish is nothing short of healthy. The benefits of eating fish at times seem endless. And although we’ve mainly mentioned omega-3 fatty acids, there are still tons of other vitamins and nutrients that can be found in fish. Vitamins include vitamin D, vitamin A, and vitamin B. As for minerals, fish is rich in calcium, selenium, iron, zinc, and magnesium.

And Well, It Tastes Good!

On top of all of the benefits of eating fish, there is another quality that’s also super great – its taste! There are so many different types of fish that have their own unique flavors, practically giving you endless recipe possibilities. Next time you’re in the kitchen, try making salmon with indi chocolate rub. The flavor profile is out of this world.

Fresh Seafood from Pure Food Fish Market