Salmon is high in omega-3s, protein, vitamins B12, B6, & selenium.
Salmon contains lots of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are important for many aspects of health.
The health benefits of salmon and other fatty fish include:
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Good for Your Heart: The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon are great for your heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to maintain healthy levels of triglycerides and contribute to good overall heart health.
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Brain Health: DHA, one kind of omega-3, is a major component of the brain. Consuming salmon and other fatty fish has been associated with better cognitive function and a reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline.
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Inflammation: The omega-3s in salmon have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to protect against chronic inflammation, which is linked to various chronic diseases, including arthritis and heart disease.
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Mood Benefits: Some studies suggest that eating the nutrients contained in salmon may improve mood and lower the risk of other mood disorders.
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Eye Health: DHA is also present in high concentrations in the retina. Consuming the nutrients in salmon may help to protect against age-related macular degeneration and maintain good vision.
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Joint Health: The nutrients in salmon may help reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis by reducing joint pain and stiffness.
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Weight Management: Including salmon in your diet promotes satiety (a feeling of fullness) and reduces appetite, potentially aiding in weight management.
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Skin Health: The nutrients in salmon, like omega-3s, can help keep the skin hydrated and may provide relief from conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
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Reduced Cancer Risk: Some research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids in salmon may protect against certain types of cancer, such as breast, prostate, and colon cancer.
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Improved Sleep: The nutrients in salmon have been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce sleep disorder symptoms when consumed as part of a healthy balanced diet.
Here's a list of ways to incorporate salmon into your meals:
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Grilled Salmon: Marinate salmon fillets in your favourite herbs and spices, then grill for a smoky, charred flavour.
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Baked Salmon: Season salmon with lemon, garlic, and herbs, then bake in the oven.
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Pan-Seared Salmon: Sear salmon fillets in a hot skillet with a little olive oil.
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Poached Salmon: Poach salmon in a flavorful broth or wine, which keeps it moist and tasty.
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Salmon Burgers: Make salmon patties by mixing ground salmon with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. Grill or pan-fry for a delicious burger alternative.
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Salmon Tacos: Flake cooked salmon and serve it in soft tortillas with coleslaw, avocado, and a yogurt-based sauce.
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Salmon Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with flaked salmon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and homemade dressing.
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Salmon Poke Bowl: Create a healthy poke bowl with cubed raw salmon, rice, seaweed, and a variety of colourful veggies. Make sure you buy salmon that can be eaten raw.
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Salmon Sushi or Sashimi: If you enjoy sushi, include salmon in rolls or enjoy it as sashimi.
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Salmon with Quinoa: Serve grilled or baked salmon over cooked quinoa and a medley of roasted vegetables.
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Salmon Cakes: Mix flaked salmon with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings to make salmon cakes. Pan-fry until golden brown.
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Salmon Frittata: Add smoked salmon to a frittata with eggs, spinach, and other vegetables.
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Salmon Skewers: Thread salmon chunks onto skewers with bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, then grill for a tasty kebab.
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Salmon Chowder: Make a creamy salmon chowder with potatoes, onions, and carrots for a comforting soup.
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Salmon and Avocado Toast: Top whole-grain toast with mashed avocado and slices of smoked salmon for a nutritious breakfast or snack.
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Salmon Nicoise Salad: Create a classic Nicoise salad with salmon, potatoes, green beans, olives, and boiled eggs.
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Salmon Sushi Bowl: Combine sushi rice, diced salmon, and your favourite sushi toppings.
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Salmon with Citrus Glaze: Make a zesty citrus glaze with lemon, orange, and honey to drizzle over salmon.
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Salmon Tandoori: Marinate salmon in tandoori spices and yoghurt, then grill or bake.
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Salmon Breakfast Burrito: Add scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, cream cheese, and chives to a tortilla for a hearty breakfast burrito.
Nutritionist Tips
Choose sustainably sourced fish whenever possible to support responsible fishing practices and protect our oceans. In Sweden, we can find salmon from the Faroe Islands in many different places. Enjoy these delicious and nutritious fatty fish preparations to reap the numerous health benefits they offer.
To enjoy these health benefits, it is recommended to incorporate fatty fish into your diet at least a couple of times per week. Grilled, baked, or pan-seared preparations are delicious and nutritious ways to savour the advantages of these omega-3-rich marine delicacies.
The omega-3 from whole fish is absorbed better than the omega-3 from supplements, so choose fatty fish when possible.