3 Body Parts That Call For The Omega-3 Fatty Acids In Seafood

If you love fish, there could be a reason that you crave it. Your body sometimes develops a craving for foods that satisfy specific nutritional needs, especially if you are deficient in certain vitamins, minerals or other beneficial nutrients.

Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are found in fish oils and contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Both of these fatty acids are needed by your body, but there are not many other foods that provide them. In fact, they are known as marine omega-3s. Still, some vegetable oils, nuts, animal fats and seeds offer another omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Although ALA is used by your body for energy, little of this nutrient is converted into the EPA and DHA that your body needs. 

Here are three body parts that may be calling for the omega-3 fatty acids found in the menu items of your favorite seafood restaurants:

Your Heart

Consumption of fish that contains EPA and DHA can reduce your risk of dying from a coronary death by 36 percent. In addition, your overall risk of mortality is lowered by 17 percent. In order to reap these benefits, you only need to consume fish about once or twice a week.

Your Brain 

Not only is the DHA of fish likely necessary for early brain development, studies show that it is also associated with improved working memory function. Eating fish may improve your cognitive ability.

Your Eyes

Over 10 million people in the United States suffer from macular degeneration. The disease, which is the main cause of vision loss, currently does not have a cure. It involves degeneration of the middle portion of the retina, which is called the macula. Since the macula helps the eye focus centrally, it allows you to see details in images, operate an automobile, and recognize family members. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil help protect adult eyes from developing macular degeneration with age. 

Although fish has been associated with some contaminants, such as mercury, the beneficial effects of seafood outweigh any detrimental effects. In addition, some fish, such as wild-caught salmon, may not contain as many contaminants as some other seafood selections. Still, based on the health benefits of seafood, you can feel free to enjoy your favorite seafood dishes. Find a seafood restaurant in your area with lots of fresh dishes and enjoy your fish. One place you might want to check out is The Turtle Club.


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