For individuals looking for ways to improve their health and nutrition, adding seafood to their diet can yield many surprising benefits. Fish and other types of seafood are often cited in recommended diets as a great way to add lean protein, reduce inflammation, and improve both heart and brain health.

It is no surprise that eating seafood has become more accepted and encouraged as a dietary staple with all these benefits.

HarborChase Senior Living believes good health begins with good food. While there are many healthy options available, fish and seafood can have a remarkable impact on our health and wellness. Our fine dining restaurants often incorporate seafood options into our menus because of their health benefits and delicious flavor.

As you plan your meals, do yourself a favor and add more seafood – you will be glad you did!

Why Eat Seafood to Support Heart Health

According to the Mayo Clinic, eating at least two servings of fish each week can reduce your risk of heart disease. One of the main reasons for this is that fish are rich in unsaturated fat called omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body (which can damage the heart).

Omega-3 fatty acids also benefit the heart by decreasing triglycerides (a type of fat), reducing irregular heartbeats, and lowering your risk of stroke and heart failure.

Why Eat Seafood to Protect Your Brain

A 2020 study found a possible link between fish consumption and reduced risk of mild cognitive impairment. Researchers concluded that one possible reason for this is the presence of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is a protective factor in the nervous system in humans.

Additionally, the omega-3 fatty acids that are important to good heart health also play a role in brain health. Increased blood flow and oxygen to the brain improves the organ’s ability to function, and reduced inflammation in the tissue can reduce your risk of dementia and cognitive impairment.

Many Recommended Diets Include Fish

Two of the most highly recommended diets are the Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and the Mediterranean Diet. Although both diets involve plant-based foods like leafy greens, berries, and nuts – all foods that lead to improved health – both diets also recommend lean meats like fish as a valuable source of protein.

In fact, both DASH and the Mediterranean Diet recommend adding fish to your menu at least twice each week to gain the full benefits that seafood can provide.

The Best Seafood for Health

Although seafood is a recommended part of your regular diet, it is important to remember that some foods are healthier than others. If you are going to incorporate fish into your meals, there are certain ones that you should prioritize over others.

Here is a list of omega-3 rich seafood that can improve your overall health and nutrition:

• Salmon
• Sardine
• Atlantic mackerel
• Cod
• Herring
• Lake trout
• Canned, light tuna

It is also important to remember that while seafood is a good part of every diet, you should be careful about overdoing it. For example, some seafood might contain elevated mercury levels, which is why most experts recommend limiting your intake to approximately two servings each week.

Enjoy Seafood Inspired Meals at HarborChase

At HarborChase Senior Living, we are committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences at each one of our resort-style communities. Our master chefs prepare fresh meals each day, incorporating the finest ingredients into every signature dish. As part of our commitment to health and wellness, we offer seafood options to residents and guests, ensuring that everyone who comes to a HarborChase community enjoys the very best we have to offer.

Whether you are planning your meals for the week ahead or want to enjoy a relaxing night out at one of our restaurants, including seafood in your diet can have many positive health benefits. We encourage you to incorporate more fish such as salmon and tuna into your meals to improve your heart health, reduce inflammation, and increase brain function.

To learn more about how HarborChase Senior Living promotes health and wellness in our dining experiences, we invite you to visit our website today!