The Nutritious Meal You Should Be Eating More Often

By Stepy Kamei

When it comes to classic dinner staples, there are some dishes that fall into this category for good reason. It's always great to find the combination of a meal that's delicious, filling, and nutritious all in one dish. Chicken normally gets the spotlight when it comes to this, and while it's certainly valid, eating chicken night after night can get a little monotonous after a while. If you're looking to change up what you eat, yet still keep those three important elements in mind, consider adding more fish onto your grocery list week after week. Keep on reading to learn more about the reasons why fish is so good for so many aspects of your health -- and how versatile of a base it can be for many of your favorite types of meals.

The Health Benefits of Fish

There are many things we in the modern age can stand to learn from our ancestors, including their dietary habits. Cultures all across the world have been consuming various forms of fish for thousands of years. It's a balanced, nutrition-packed meal that can be prepared in enough ways to keep it interesting over and over again.

Many species of fish are fatty, meaning they contain the healthy kind of fat our bodies need to convert into energy. Perhaps the most well-known health aspect of fish is that many species tend to be packed with omega-3 fatty acids. These acids have been scientifically proven to improve the health of the brain, specifically when it comes to cognitive function and critical thinking. They have also been linked to the reduced likelihood of developing many diseases.

Importantly, fish also contains protein. It's known as a lean protein by nutritionists, meaning it's an overall better choice for meat-eaters than red meats, which contain unhealthy saturated fats. The protein found in fish won't clog your arteries or contribute to health problems; instead, it'll work to build up your muscles and power your body every day.

Fish also contains the nutrients iodine and Vitamin D. What's not to love?

Which Fish to Eat, and How to Work Them Into Your Meals

Add fish into your meal plan two to three times a week to get all the nutrients without going overboard. Generally speaking, fresh fish that's free of preservatives and as minimally processed as possible is the best way to consume fish. Salmon and mackerel are widely considered to be two of the best options, but be sure to opt for wild-caught if you can, to reduce the risk of harmful pollutants ending up in the fish. You can easily steam, bake, or pan-fry these fish and garnish with a wide variety of toppings. Try a simple salmon baked with olive oil, garlic, and lemon on top of a bed of brown rice and a side of roasted veggies for a truly delicious and nutritious meal. 

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gahanna, Ohio.