5 Reasons Why You Should Add More Fish To Your Diet
Fish is one of the healthiest foods you can consume and is packed full of essential nutrients, protein and vitamins. It’s also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids that are vital for your body and brain. If you’re guilty of not getting your two portions of fish per week, here are five reasons why you should add it to your diet from today:
1. Lower Your Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke
According to the latest data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), heart disease and stroke were among the leading causes of death in Ireland in 2018. Fish is considered one of the most heart-healthy foods that you can eat and studies show that people who eat fish regularly have a lower risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death from heart disease.
2. Easy To Cook and Ready in Minutes
Contrary to belief, fish is very easy to cook and you can whip up a delicious meal in minutes. It can be steamed, sautéed, smoked, grilled, baked or poached and whether you’re serving with baby boiled potatoes, chips or a fresh salad, fish is the perfect accompaniment to any side-dish. If you’re in the rush or on the go, try our Atlantic Treasure’s Smocked Mackerel range which comes in four (very tasty!) flavours. Shop HERE.
3. Great Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Essential For Brain and Eye Development)
Fish is full of Omega-3 fatty acids that contribute to proper growth and development – essential given our bodies don’t produce it on their own. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are encouraged to eat high omega-3 fish such as salmon, sardines and trout. However, it’s worth noting that pregnant women should avoid high-mercury fish. Our fishmonger, Ronan Cunningham at The Fish Stop can help guide you on the right type of fish to add to your diet.
4. Source of Vitamin D
Vitamin D acts like a steroid hormone in your body and interestingly, almost half of Irish people are deficient or low in it. In fact, Donegal has the worst national average (according to an article in the Irish Times). Fish are among the best dietary sources of vitamin D, so if you ever needed a nudge to eat more delicious fresh salmon, this is it.
5. Perfect For Parties
Since lockdown hit in mid-March, the entire country has been looking forward to catching up with family and friends. If you’re hosting a mini-party (following social distancing guidelines), why not add some seafood canapes to the menu? From miniature prawn cocktails and fishcakes to pates and melba toast topped with fresh fish, the options are endless.
We highly recommend purchasing your fresh fish from a trusted source. The Fish Stop, located in Killybegs, is open from Tuesday to Saturday and has a great selection of fresh salmon, trout, mussels and oysters as well as smoked cod, haddock, coley, mackerel, herring and salmon.
You can also order online at www.atlantictreasures.ie. Order by 12pm Monday for Tuesday delivery and by 12pm Thursday for Friday delivery.