This bright pink and great tasting fish is not just a pretty sight on your plate. Wild salmon has a stellar nutritional reputation that makes it a great catch for any meal. In addition to being a great source of protein, salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, carotenoids, and selenium that can boost your health in many ways.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids – These fats, which our body cannot synthesize itself, are an integral part of our cell walls. Foods rich with omega-3’s help to strengthen cell walls as well as decrease cholesterol and fat levels, increase metabolism, and promote eye, brain and nerve function.
- Carotenoids – These pigments are what gives salmon its bright pink color, but they do much more than that. Carotenoids can also act as antioxidants which fight free radicals in the body. Astaxanthin, the most prominent carotenoid in salmon has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Selenium – This mineral has many health benefits, including antioxidative properties. As an antioxidant, it helps to prevent many cancers, but it also promotes cognitive function, a healthy immune system, and fertility.
In order to fully reap the benefits of salmon, be sure to purchase only wild salmon as any farm raised salmon will have high levels of mercury and lower levels of its natural nutrients. Salmon is great by itself or paired with a side, and its quick cook time makes it an easy meal when you’re in a rush.