6 Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon's reputation as a healthy food is largely based on its
unusual omega-3 fatty acid content. It is normal for 4 ounces of salmon
to contain at least 2 grams of omega-3 fats - more than the average U.S.
adult gets from all food over the course of several days. This omega-3
fat comes in two forms: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA
(docosahexaenoic acid). However, salmon is also rich in other
properties, such as vitamin D and selenium, each of which have their own
powerful health benefits.
Intriguing research into the protein and amino acid content of this
fish has found that salmon also contains small bioactive protein
molecules (called bioactive peptides) that may provide protection for
joint cartilage, support with insulin effectiveness, and control of
inflammation in the digestive tract. One thing to bear in mind, though,
is that all of these benefits are derived from the consumption of wild
salmon, and the farmed kind is an entirely different kettle of fish.
Inflammation
Research on fish intake and joint protection has shown that the omega-3
fatty acids found in salmon can be converted by the body into three
types of compounds that prevent chronic inflammation. What's especially
interesting is that it combines these anti-inflammatory benefits with
anti-inflammatory relief related not to fat but to protein.
Recent studies show the presence of bioactive peptides in salmon may
support healthy joint cartilage and other types of tissue. One bioactive
peptide named calcitonin has been of special interest because it is
also made in the human body by the thyroid gland, and we know that it
helps regulate and stabilize the balance of collagen and minerals in
bone and surrounding tissue. Such peptides may combine with salmon's
omega-3 molecules to provide powerful anti-inflammatory benefits for
joints. The incredibly high content of vitamin D and selenium found in
salmon have also been shown to be key agents in preventing unwanted
inflammation.
Cognitive Function
Much research has proven docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) to be the most
important fat found in the brain, and the substantial content of this
omega-3 fatty acid in salmon explains the benefits of salmon intake for
thinking and the decreased risk of certain brain-related problems.
Salmon intake is associated with decreased chances of depression,
hostility in some studies of teenagers, and decreased cognitive decline
in older people. Some studies have also demonstrated an association
between IQ and a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Of particular interest is the recent discovery of what are called
protectins. These are special compounds made from DHA which studies have
shown play an important role as anti-inflammatory molecules,
particularly when produced by nerve tissue. There has been speculation
that some of the brain-related value of omega-3 fish intake may be due
to conversion of the DHA in these fish to protectins that can aid in
preventing excessive inflammation. Vitamin D has also been shown to be a
major factor in supporting cognitive function, and salmon abounds in
this nutrient.
Cancer Prevention
Vitamin D has been shown to play a crucial role in lowering the risk of
several types of cancer, including breast, prostate, and colorectal
cancer. Salmon contains particularly high levels of vitamin D and
selenium, which is also associated with prevention of certain types of
cancer, including colorectal cancer.
Omega-3 fat is also connected to decreased risk for several types of
cancer, including colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and breast cancer.
Regular omega-3 intake has been proven particularly effective against
the blood cell or lymph cell-related cancers such as leukemia, multiple
myeloma, and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
Eye Health
It is well known that fish oil is good for improving vision. It also
helps in avoiding age related macular degeneration. The omega-3 fats
found in salmon have been demonstrated to be effective in combating both
macular degeneration and chronic dry eye. In the case of macular
degeneration, two servings of salmon per week is enough to significantly
decrease risk.
Studies on dry eye have begun to focus specifically on the
neuroprotectins made from DHA in salmon and other omega-3 fish. These
omega-3 derived molecules might aid in preventing chronic dry eye by
alleviating inflammation.
Cardiovascular Health
Intake of salmon has been connected to a decreased risk of numerous
cardiovascular problems, such as heart attack, stroke, heart arrhythmia
and high blood pressure. Consumption of omega-3-containing salmon is
also linked with improved metabolic markers for cardiovascular disease.
The high levels of the antioxidant selenium in salmon have also been
shown to be especially important in cardiovascular protection.
Skin and Hair Health
The omega-3s found in salmon lock moisture into skin cells, encouraging
the production of strong collagen and elastin fibers, which contribute
to more youthful looking skin. Omega-3s have also been known to
alleviate skin blemishes and maintain a good luster of the hair.
Omega-3s provide nourishment to hair follicles, helping hair grow
healthy and preventing hair loss. A rich supply of proteins is also
important for hair growth. The high protein content of salmon helps
maintain strong, healthy hair.
Posted by Joanne Vanderhoef
Marketing and Media Specialist
http://www.bonessteak.com
