- Smoked salmon offers many health benefits.salmon dish image by poGosha from Fotolia.com
Smoked salmon is a "superfood" with multiple health benefits as a great source of protein, the antioxidant vitamin E, vitamin B-12 and omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids are unsaturated fats found in oily, meaty fish like salmon, as well as flax seed, walnuts, canola, and soy. These fatty acids are very beneficial for overall good health. Smoked salmon also has lower mercury content than other larger meaty fish such as swordfish and shark, making it a safer choice for fish rich in omega-3.
Sometimes touted as a miracle food, smoked salmon isn't going to cure any diseases on its own; however, there is evidence that including it in a balanced diet on a regular basis can help the body maintain good health. - Smoked salmon's high level of omega-3 fatty acid is so heart healthy that the American Heart Association recommends at least two omega-3-rich meals a week, especially for those with cardiovascular disease or at-risk for developing heart problems. Smoked salmon can help maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol. It also contains Vitamin E, an antioxidant that is important in organ and cellular function.
- Type 2 diabetics often have high levels of triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Omega-3 fatty acids may help those levels--in cultures where fatty fish such as smoked salmon are frequently consumed, levels of beneficial triglyceride have been found to be lower. The vitamin E in smoked salmon also acts as an anti-inflammatory on blood vessels, which is beneficial for Type 2 diabetics. Smoked salmon is classified as a lean meat in the diabetic dietary exchange.
- Smoked salmon is lower in calories than many other meat, poultry and fish options. Because smoked salmon is rich and the flavor is strong, it is often sliced very thin and a smaller amount is often served. The protein is also a vital part of any weight-loss diet and exercise plan.
- Smoked salmon can even brighten your mood and increase general energy. Dr. Susan M Kleiner, co-author of "The Good Mood Diet," recommends a salmon-rich diet to help greatly improve well-being. While it has been shown that smoked salmon's high protein and omega-3 can help boost mood, the effect on clinical depression is not yet conclusive.
- B-12 is a vital nutrient found in fish, meat and dairy that helps make red blood cells. A deficiency of this nutrient can lead to anemia, fatigue, gastronomical problems, and in severe cases, nerve damage that can cause depression or even dementia. A serving of smoked salmon has one of the highest natural levels of B-12, making it a good choice for preventing B-12 deficiency.
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