The nutritional value of seafood | Community News

Certain types of dishes tend to inspire a little extra devotion, and seafood is one such food. Seafood is an umbrella term that refers to fish such as salmon and tuna, as well as crustaceans such as shrimp, crab and oysters. That’s a wide range of foods, which underlines the versatility of seafood.

Versatility is a standout feature of seafood, and diners can keep that in mind when planning a night out on the town. Another valuable quality of seafood is its nutritional value, which may be more important than even the most dedicated seafood lovers realize.

· Fish contains little saturated fat. The American Heart Association notes that fish is not high in saturated fats. In fact, the AHA recommends eating two servings of fish every week, especially fatty fish like salmon. Other types of oily fish include bluefin tuna, oysters, mussels, herring, mackerel and anchovies.

· Certain types of fish and seafood can help lower triglyceride levels. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are two types of fatty acids found in fish such as mackerel and salmon that are linked to heart health. The Cleveland Clinic notes that EPA and DHA help lower triglyceride levels, which is beneficial for several reasons. According to the Mayo Clinic, high triglycerides can contribute to hardening of the arteries, or thickening of the artery walls, a condition known as arteriosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis is a known risk factor for stroke, heart attack and heart disease.

· Shellfish contain a lot of protein and few calories. WebMD reports that shellfish is a great source of lean protein. That’s a notable benefit because lean proteins are easily digestible and essential for muscle growth and repair. Lean sources of protein can also help people feel full longer, reducing the chance of people overeating. WebMD notes that a three-ounce serving of mussels contains 22 grams of protein, which is more than 40 percent of the daily recommended amount for people on a 2,000-calorie diet. That same three-ounce serving also contains only 126 calories.

Many people mistakenly believe that eating out compromises their diet. However, people who make sensible choices when dining out can enjoy delicious food without feeling guilty. Several dishes that fall under the seafood umbrella provide a delicious and healthy option when guests want to visit the city without compromising their overall health.