9 Incredible Benefits of Salmon Fish You May Not Have Known

The Indian subcontinent is extremely lucky in terms of its fish produce. Those bordering the extended coastal regions of the country enjoy fish (and other seafoods) as part of their staple diet. The state and cities built on the banks of rivers too make the most of the extensive range of fishes available. Fishes and their numerous types and preparations make our cuisine even richer and varied. One such fish that has been gaining a great rep in the world of health and fitness is Salmon. Belonging to the family of fatty fish, with Herrings, Mackarels and Sardines, Salmon is primarily known for its heart-healthy properties and its role in aiding weight loss. But salmon is so much more than that.

Here are 9 incredible benefits of salmon, that would compel you to make this fatty fish a mainstay in your diet.
 

1. Lowers blood PressureAccording to the book 'Healing Foods' by DK Publishing, Salmon is "uniquely rich in omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenic acid (EPA) and decosahexaenoic acid. In combination with its abundant supply of selenium, these omega 3 fatty acids help lower blood pressure, "unhealthy" cholesterol levels in the blood and inflammation reducing the risk of Heart disease. According to Dr. Simran Saini, Nutritionist at Fortis Hospital, "Salmon with its heart-healing properties is extremely good for the cardio-muscular health too".
 

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_{These omega 3 fatty acids help lower blood pressure}2. Source of Healthy fats

Consultant Nutritionist Dr. Rupali Dutta says that Salmon are a good source of healthy fats. Salmon packs weight loss boosting omega 3 EFAs. A balanced and sufficient intake of EFAs (essential fatty acids) help you burn body fat and giving you energy.
 

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_{Salmon are a good source of healthy fats.}3. Weight loss-friendlySalmon is touted to be the one of the best weight-loss foods for its immense proportion of lean proteins, says Dr. Rupali Dutta. The fats are distributed through its flesh rather than being concentrated in their liver. Salmon fish has less saturated fat than most red meat, and oodles of protein which makes it one of your best companions for healthy weight loss.
 

(Also Read: How To Lose Belly Fat: Secret Food And Other Tips To Help You Cut The Bulge)

_{Salmon is touted to be the one of the best weight-loss foods​}4. Bank of vitamins and mineralsAccording to the book 'Healing Foods', the fatty fish is loaded with vitamins A, D, E and K which can benefit bone joints, eyes, feed the brain, repair muscle and regulate metabolic balance.5. Improves memory, good brain foodHaving a hard time concentrating on something? Or remembering important dates and commitments? Have salmon. According to Dr. Dutta, salmon makes for an excellent brain food. Rich in omega- 3 fatty acids, the fatty fish helps sharpen your brain and improves your memory retention. It is also known to reduce risk of dementia and loss of mental functions.

_{The fatty fish helps sharpen your brain and improves your memory retention}6. AntiinflammatorySalmon's anti-inflammatory properties make it one of the most preferred foods in the world of health and nutrition. It is low on pro-inflammatory omega 6 fatty acids which is already abundant in modern diet.7. Facilitates healthy skinEating salmon as part of your regular diet may also give you a radiant skin. According to Dr. Dutta, the essential fatty acids present in salmon encourages your skin to hold water, making it smooth, supple and youthful.

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_{Eating salmon as part of your regular diet may also give you a radiant skin.​}8. Keeps you warmSalmon could be the best food to load up on winters as it keeps the body warm, says Dr. Saini. It's energy dense content should make the fish your go-to food right away. Have them grilled, include them in salads, sandwiches, gravies and make the most of the fatty fish.

_{Salmon could be the best food to load up on winters as it keeps the body warm​}9. Provides lubrication to jointsAccording to Dr. Saini, the essential fatty acids and a storehouse of minerals present in salmon also helps provide lubrication to joints. In other words, salmon helps promote bone health by boosting felexibility. 
 

_{Minerals present in salmon also helps provide lubrication to joints.}Grilled salmon works the best if you are looking to make the most of its health benefits. However, there are several other preparations you can experiment with to enjoy this fresh ingredient. Include the fatty fish in your daily diet and see the wonderful effects yourself.