9 Benefits of Eating Fish for Optimal Body Health

Fish is one of the sources of animal protein that has many benefits. The nutritional content found in a piece of fish is indeed very beneficial for the body. One important component that is very beneficial when you eat fish is omega 3. Not only is it very beneficial, but there are also many types of fish, making it delicious to consume.

The benefits of eating fish include nutritional content that enhances brain development, bone health, and prevents the risk of chronic diseases. This will keep the body in prime condition even as it ages. You may rarely eat fish, but after knowing its benefits, you will surely be motivated to consume it. Let's check out the following information!

The best nutritional sources from fish

The nutrition from fish that is very beneficial for health is omega 3 fatty acids. If you are looking for the best source of omega 3 nutrition, here are some fish you can choose.

-   Mackerel with a total omega 3 content of 4,107 mg/piece

-   Salmon with selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B content

-   Cod with liver oil rich in vitamin A and vitamin D

-   Sardines, which are small oily fish with selenium, vitamin D, and B12

-   Oysters with omega 3, vitamin B12, and copper content

Consuming fish should be a habit from a young age so that children can become familiar with its taste. Once accustomed to eating fish, its benefits can be felt in their growth and health in adulthood.

The health benefits of eating fish

Fish contains various benefits that are good for body health, so you should not hesitate to make it one of your regular food lists. If consumed regularly, eating fish can provide several good benefits and prevent various diseases. Here are the benefits you can gain from consuming fish.

Helps bone growth

Bones have the primary function of supporting the human body. Therefore, bone growth must be well monitored from an early age. Fish contains calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and other mineral nutrients that can help bone growth. This is why it is good to get children used to eating fish regularly from a young age.

Yes, fish consumption is indeed recommended for children to support their intake of calcium and healthy fatty acids. For bone and dental growth, children must receive adequate nutrition so that their body development process is also optimal.

Protects vision function

Consuming fish is also beneficial for maintaining a person's vision. Eating fish regularly can minimize the occurrence of macular degeneration, a vision disorder that can lead to blindness. Usually, this eye disorder occurs in older individuals (over 60 years old).

Prevents heart disease

Heart disease is one of the diseases that poses a high risk to a person's health. Fish also contains omega 3 fatty acids that are very good for the heart. Its function can reduce fat levels in the blood, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Try to make a habit of consuming tuna, sardines, salmon, or mackerel.

The risk of heart attacks and strokes is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. Therefore, it is important to keep heart health in check. According to research in the United States reported in an article from kompas.com, men who consume one serving of fish regularly each week have a 15% lower risk of heart disease. So, it is advisable to start managing your diet.

Reduces the risk of diabetes

In addition to heart disease, diabetes is also one of the diseases that has a high risk. In young people, type 1 diabetes often occurs and can even affect children or teenagers. This disease is usually characterized by pancreatic damage, making it difficult for the body to produce insulin to regulate blood sugar.

Typically, diabetes in children can be identified from the age of 4 to 14 years. Diabetes can be identified by symptoms such as rapid thirst and hunger, quick fatigue, numbness in hands or feet, easy infections, frequent urination, and even kidney failure. Therefore, it is important to eat fish in appropriate portions and at regular intervals.

Prevents allergic diseases

Do you have allergies that often flare up and disrupt your comfort during activities? If this happens frequently, you should also eat fish regularly. Fish is believed to contain long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that can reduce the risk of respiratory allergies (asthma) or atopic dermatitis.

Prevents Alzheimer's disease

This disease usually occurs in older individuals. As one approaches their 60s, there is a potential for degenerative brain diseases that cause memory loss, coordination issues, and balance problems. Eating fish regularly can increase gray matter in the brain center, keeping memory and emotional functions optimal.

Reduces the risk of depression

You may not be very familiar with the benefits of fish for reducing depression. Yes, even fish consumption is highly recommended for people experiencing depression or mental disorders.

The omega 3 content in fish can also help address mental disorders. Usually, the consumption of antidepressant medications needs to be supported by fish consumption, which can provide optimal nutrition. With regular consumption and appropriate portions, antidepressants will function more effectively to restore healthy brain function.

Improves sleep quality

Many factors can disrupt sleep quality, even though sleep is a natural process that the body needs to perform metabolism. Therefore, sleep time must be optimized every day so that body cells can rest as well.

Did you know that vitamin D intake can improve sleep quality? Those of you who have difficulty sleeping may be lacking in vitamin D. This can increase the risk of sleep apnea, which will shorten your sleep time. Therefore, consuming fish is also good for improving sleep quality for a more restful night.

Enhances brain development

Fatty acids from fish are also rich in omega 3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This nutrient content may often be found in advertisements for children's multivitamins. Instead of providing artificial supplements, you can also try natural nutritional sources from salmon, sardines, or tuna.

It turns out that DHA is also recommended for pregnant women as it can promote fetal brain development. To achieve optimal results and ensure safety for the baby in the womb, it is best to consult on the types of fish and the right portions to consume daily!

If you are already accustomed to eating fish, you just need to create some delicious fish menu variations. Thus, regular fish consumption can be enjoyed without getting bored. Don't forget to balance it with other healthy nutritional intakes!

Author: Rizkita Darajat