| Make Friends with Fat: Omega-3 (Part 2) | |
Why it's a Good Thing
Size up Your Seafood Now that is Fishy!
* Source: omega3info.com
Studies have shown that getting enough omega-3 can significantly impact our chances of developing deadly diseases. Recent research has indicated that the intake of sufficient levels of omega-3 may reduce the risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. Additionally, according to FatsForHealth.com (a Web site devoted to news and resources about essential fatty acids), omega-3 can even help treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, depression, and immune system dysfunction, among other health issues.
Here are the omega-3 values of some of the most commonly-consumed oil-rich fish. (This chart indicates amount of omega-3s/g per 100g.)*:
With "bad" fats we've learned to avoid the higher numbers. When it comes to fat, calories, and percent-of-calories-from fat, less is definitely more. But with omega-3 essential fatty acid, more is more. The higher the omega-3 content, the better.
Learning that fish is good for you doesn't mean you should run to the kitchen and pop a box of fish sticks in the oven! For example, my friend swears that her fast food fish sandwich is a healthy choice because fish is "good for you". I contend that the battered, deep-fried patty of who-knows-what kind of fish covered with melted cheese and smothered with a boat-load of tartar sauce is anything but. (I think my exact response was: "That ain't good for nobody.") Remember to keep the big picture in mind when making your food choices.
