Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon has been a dietary staple on the west coast for thousands of years. Besides the delicious taste and joy and excitement in catching one for yourself, there are many reasons to regularly consume the fish. From reduced inflammation to lowering your risk of cancer and reducing blood pressure, salmon seems to have it all. Not familiar with the fish? Salmon is a species of fish which is found both in fresh water (rivers) and saline water (seas), depending on the stage of its development.

It has been suggested that chronic inflammation is the root cause of many diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Consuming Salmon just twice a week can help drastically reduce your chances of ever contracting these terrible diseases. Consuming salmon on the regular can help reduce depressive symptoms, decrease anxiety and slow age related memory loss while lowering the risk of dementia. A Swedish study that followed more than 6000 men for 30 years found that those who ate moderate amounts of fatty fish dramatically cut their risk of prostate cancer – by a third.

Listed below are the various nutrients in Salmon and the health benefits associated with them.

Bioactive peptides-Are specific protein fragments that have a positive impact on bodily functions. They provide special support for joint cartilage; increase insulin effectiveness; improves bone density and strength and reduce inflammation of the digestive tract.

Omega-3 fatty acids-Are essential fats, meaning we must get them from our diet as our bodies are incapable of creating them. These benefits of these fats include; decreases inflammation; lowers blood pressure; reduce risk of cancer; improve the health of arterial cells; improves eye function and development; boost academic performance. Omegas are also thought to reduce the risk of osteoarthritis.

Protein– Is the building blocks of muscle- Consuming lean protein helps healing after injury; protects bone health; maintains muscle mass during weight loss; can aid in weight loss.

Vitamin D– A hormone known for its role in bone health, the immune system and proper functioning of several organs. Vitamin D increases the bodies absorption of calcium promoting bone health; lowers blood pressure; reduces risk of diabetes; lowers risk of heart attack and rheumatoid arthritis

B Vitamins (1-6, 9, 12)– Are a class if water soluble vitamins that play an important role in cell metabolism. They are essential to several important bodily functions such as turning your food into useable energy; creating and repairing DNA; reducing inflammation that can lead to heart disease; All work together to maintain optimal function of brain and nervous system.

Potassium– Is an essential mineral and electrolyte which regulates fluid balance and controlling electrical activity of the heart and other muscles. Consuming high levels of potassium helps to control blood pressure; reduces risk of stroke; prevents excess water retention (bloating); preserves bone density; protects against muscle loss.

Selenium-Another essential mineral in the body which assist in thyroid function and metabolism. Only a small amount is needed but it can assist with bone health; thyroid function; reduce risk of cancer; decrease joint inflammation and is a powerful antioxidant.

Astaxanthin– Is an antioxidant that gives salmon flesh it’s red colour. It helps to; Lower risk of heart disease; reduces LDL (bad cholesterol) and increases HDL (good cholesterol); Works with B vitamins to Protect brain and nervous system from inflammation; help prevent skin damage and delay aging

With so many reasons to consume salmon, the importance of the source of the fish is so important. Farmed salmon should be avoided as it often contains hormones, diseases, heavy metals and parasites. Wild salmon is by far the healthiest choice, and catching it yourself can be very rewarding. Check out our fishing packages to get a fun trip with benefits of eating healthy today. and book today and we’ll be seeing you on the water! Click here for delicious salmon recipes

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