Evidence supports the contention that fish is a healthy food. However, while fish is known to possess certain health effects, these may vary between different types of fish. Perhaps the most well known health effect of fish is due to its content of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are present only in certain cold water oily fish including sardines, mackerel, tuna, salmon and trout. The omega-3 fatty acids in these fish may be protective of a number of diseases because of the anti-inflammatory effects derived from them. However, white non-oily fish also shows protective effects against disease, and so components other than the omega-3 fatty acids may have significant health benefits. Consumption of white fish is associated with protection from cognitive decline, suggesting that it may be neuroprotective. One compound found in fish that may improve cognitive function is dimethyl aminoethanol (DMAE). This may explain the old wife’s tale suggesting that fish is a brain friendly food.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
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