Salmon is one of very popular fishes used in many cuisines. Salmon health benefits are well known and include cardiovascular health, efficient body metabolism, eye health, normal muscle and tissue development as well as cancer prevention.
Nutritional value of salmon is difficult to underestimate. Salmon is an excellent source of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins (B12, B6, B3, B5, D, A); essential minerals (selenium, zinc, phosphorus, calcium, potassium and iron); proteins (amino acids). Salmon nutritional content makes it one of the world’s healthiest foods – salmon has one of the highest omega-3 content and several other useful properties which can protect body from several diseases.
Salmon health benefits have been proven by centuries
Salmon health benefits – Cardiovascular health
Salmon powerful omega-3 fatty acids contribute in reducing levels of cholesterol, strengthen cardiac muscles, maintain flexibility of arteries and veins. At the same time, essential amino acids repair damages to the cardiovascular tissues – they help reduce the blood pressure by lowering cholesterol levels and preventing the hardening of artery walls. All mentioned mechanisms can dramatically reduce chances of heart attacks. This is why some natural medicine experts recommend “Eat salmon 2-3 times a week and avoid heart attack”. Eating salmon can help reduce systemic inflammation and the risk of developing atherosclerosis, hypertension and stroke.
Salmon health benefits – Brain and nerve system
Several studies confirm that omega-3 fatty acids increase the efficiency of brain functions, improve memory and keep it active during long working hours. This is why the omega-3 rich foods have been shown to increase the efficiency of various brain functions and can help improve memory. Research has shown that children who regularly eat salmon also experience the same brain benefits as their parents. Various studies have shown that feeding salmon to preschool children helps prevent Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and can even improve academic performance. It was noted that nutrition in salmon helps focus better and remember more.
Scientists also noted that combination of amino acids, vitamin A, vitamin D and selenium can protect the nervous system from damages related to aging. They actually act as antidepressant, relaxe the brain and in addition support treatment of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. According to scientists, long-term omega-3 supplementation can help prevent and treat Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Salmon health benefits – Eye health
Some ophthalmological studies noted that omega-3 fatty acids and amino acids help to prevent macular degeneration, retinal dryness, loss of vision and fatigue of the eyes. It is a proven fact that people who eat fish regularly, have better vision than those who don’t.
Eating salmon has been linked to helping cure dry eye syndrome and age-related macular degeneration. Omega-3 fatty acids are also involved in the drainage of intraocular fluid from the eyes – decreasing risks of glaucoma and high eye pressure. Salmon omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for the eye development in infants.
Salmon health benefits – Vitamin D deficiency
According to recent research, vitamin D deficiency is responsible for development of several diseases including breast cancer, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease. Some health experts recommend eating vitamin D-rich salmon on a regular basis.
Salmon health benefits
Salmon health benefits – Cancer
Can salmon fight cancer? Is it true that salmon omega-3 fatty acids can kill cancerous cells?
Evidenced-based studies clearly demonstrated – omega-3 fatty acids can not only prevent cancer but can also kill tumors by triggering “suicide” of cancerous cells.
Several scientific laboratory tests confirm ability of omega-3 fatty acids to kill cancer cells in several tumors such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer, skin cancer, UVB-induced skin cancer and malignant brain tumors.
Salmon health benefits – Bones and joints
Salmon antioxidants can fight free radicals responsible for inflammation processes. Inflammation contributes to bone resorption, which is a process in which bone tissue is broken down. Since omega-3 rich salmon is a natural anti-inflammatory, eating this delicious fish on a regular basis is a great way to keep your bones strong.
Research has recently uncovered that regular omega-3 consumption can help keep osteoporosis at bay. It was noted that women who had a higher level of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood experienced less hip fractures.
Salmon health benefits – Skin health
Fighting free radicals salmon antioxidants actually prevent skin aging. Thanks to omega-3 fats, carotenoid antioxidants and some other salmon properties, you can keep your skin elastic, radiant and glowing.
