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Salmon: How much you need and why you need it

Posted at 5:49 PM, Dec 01, 2017
and last updated 2017-12-06 11:28:42-05

Salmon is an excellent food to add to your meals because it’s a great source of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. 

And the only way to get these fats is by eating them because our body doesn’t make them. 

This nutritious fish is a great source of protein and also loaded with nutrients like potassium, B vitamins, and selenium. 

And eating it regularly may boost your immune system and reduce your risk factors for a few diseases too.

Eating salmon regularly could help against heart disease and fight inflammation. It may lower blood pressure and could reduce your risk of cancer. 

Salmon may also reduce anxiety and depression, and protect the grey matter in your brain, reducing memory issues later in life.  

Partha’s RX:

1. The American Heart Association recommends we eat fish twice a week. Each serving should be four-ounces.

2. Salmon is very versatile so try it steamed, smoked, sautéed, grilled, or baked. It’s also great raw when served as sushi.

3. Canned salmon is a convenient option with the same health benefits. Check that the can is BPA-free to avoid potential health hazards linked to this chemical. 

4. Don’t buy fish with a strong fishy smell. And if you freeze it, defrost it in the fridge so harmful bacteria doesn’t grow. 

It’s not safe to eat salmon daily because it contains mercury and pollutants which we absorb upon eating.

Mercury does leave our body eventually but high levels can be harmful so don’t eat oily fish more than 4 times a week. 

And if you’re pregnant, stick to 2 portions of fish a week and avoid all high-mercury fish like king mackerel and swordfish.