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If you are non-vegetarian or simply pescatarian for health reasons, then you know just how beneficial eating fish is for long-term health benefits. And while most people who eat fish know all about the benefits of popular fish varieties like salmon, anchovies and sardines, many are still unaware of the health benefits of eating tuna fish. This is primarily because tuna fish, as the world eats it, is not one of the major fish varieties in India.
Tuna is a saltwater fish which is known for its lean meat, mild flavour and versatile culinary applications in everything from salads to sushi. While the Western world predominantly uses Albacore or Skipjack tuna varieties, India’s vast coastline is home to some varieties of tuna like Bullet, Frigate and Kawakawa. And yet, because these are known by local names instead of as tuna, many people don’t realise that they are eating the fish that is known for its incredible health benefits.
So, if you want to add fish to your healthy diet, adding tuna fish is a great idea. Wondering what the benefits of eating tuna fish are? Here are all the benefits of eating tuna fish.
Video Credit: YouTube/Downshiftology
Protein Boost
Like most lean fish, tuna is a great source of high-quality proteins. Since protein and the amino acids we get from them are essential for multiple bodily functions, eating tuna fish can really boost these health parameters. Some of the functions protein helps in are building muscle, skin growth and organ tissue repair. Proteins also play a role in the production of essential enzymes, hormones and even antibodies to fight against infections.
Heart Health
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, tuna fish can play a crucial role in boosting heart health. This is because omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation, keep triglyceride and bad cholesterol levels in check and even prevent the formation of blood clots. So, by keeping the blood vessels and flow healthy, tuna fish can indeed improve your heart health.
Brain Health
As mentioned before, the omega-3 fatty acids in tuna fish can reduce inflammation in the body, including in the brain. This apart, the Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) the body synthesises from omega-3 is considered to be critical for cognitive function as it can boost memory and learning. So, eating tuna fish throughout your life can help keep your brain healthy and working at its optimal best.
Weight Loss
Tuna fish is not only packed with proteins and omega-3 fatty acids but is also low in calories and absolutely delicious. So, eating dishes made with tuna fish can really help promote satiety and prevent any cravings that lead to binge-eating. This makes tuna fish the perfect addition to your weight loss diet, especially if you also want to maintain muscle mass and health.
Immunity Boost
Apart from proteins, tuna fish is also rich in micronutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B12 and minerals like selenium. Further, tuna fish is loaded with antioxidants and bioactive compounds, all of which combine to give the immune system a much-needed boost, especially during flu outbreaks and season changes. So, eating tuna fish can really benefit your immune health.
Skin Health
The protein and amino acids in tuna fish are known to improve collagen production in the body, which in turn helps improve skin elasticity. The vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in tuna fish also keep the skin from showing signs of premature ageing. Studies also show that eating fish like tuna can help those with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis keep flare-ups in control.
Vision Power
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and many antioxidants, tuna fish is capable of improving your eye health. The omega-3s in particular aid retinal health and improve overall eye function. So, regular consumption of tuna fish can keep your eyes healthy and reduce the risks of age-related macular degeneration.
