HEALTH - ~ "5 Life-Enhancing Reasons to Eat Fish"

"5 Life-Enhancing Reasons to Eat Fish"

1.Prevent Heart Disease: A Danish study of 49,000 women that was
publishedMonday in Hypertension: Journal of the American Heart
Association found that women who ate little to no fish had 50 percent
more heart problems than those who ate fish at least once per week.
Additionally, researchers found that women who rarely ate fish had a
three-fold higher disease risk than those who ate it often. Other
research has found that eating fish high in omega-3s can slash blood
fat levels, which can contribute to a lower heart-disease risk.
2.Reduce Alzheimer's Risk: Eating fish as little as once a week can
help preserve gray-matter neurons — the part of the brain linked to
memory and cognition — according to a new study presented last monthat
the Radiological Society of North America's annual meeting.
Researchers found that people who eat baked or broiled — but notfried
— fish had larger brains and larger cells in the areas of the brain
responsible for memory and learning. Scientists believe the larger
brain volume can help lower the risk of cognitive decline and
Alzheimer's disease.
3.Improve Skin and Hair: One of the biggest drawbacks to a low-fat
dietis you often deprive your skin and hair of the healthyfat it
needs, leaving it dull and dry. The omega-3s in fish are exactly the
type of healthy fat to eat to keep your skin looking nourished and
your hair shiny. Research has also linked fish and omega-3 consumption
to treatment of skin conditions such as psoriasis.
4.Ease Depression: Several studies have found that when taken along
with prescription antidepressantmedications, the omega-3sin fish are
more effective attreating depression that just prescription medication
alone. One study of 52 pregnant women found that taking a300 mg
capsule of omega-3s during pregnancy significantly reduced the women's
risk of postpartum depression.
5.Boost Brain Development: The EFA omega-3 found in salmon and other
nutrient-rich fishare essential nutrients for children because they
contribute to brain development. Some studieshave even found that
omega-3 consumption can help soothe symptoms of ADHD. Experts
recommend, however, that parents ask their pediatrician before
introducing supplements to a child's diet.