Cod fish can offer a variety of health benefits and is available all over the world. It’s an affordable, abundant dietary option that does the body good.
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What is Cod Fish?
Cod fish are members of the Gadus genus, and there are more than a dozen other species that share the name. There are actually two types of cod fish: Atlantic and Pacific Cod. Both types have a healthy nutrient profile and oil that’s particularly valued in restaurants. Cod liver oil provides a concentrated dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which is often sold as a supplement in pill form.
Cod Fish Nutrition
The USDA National Nutrient Database discusses the abundance of protein on your plate, which is why cod is an especially good source. Plus, a single 100-gram filet provides beaucoup nutrients like 85 calories (because it’s so nutritious), and omega-3 fatty acids. Further, cod is rich with vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium and magnesium.
Health Benefits of Cod Fish
Codfish is a common food, with many health benefits. Codfish is consumed around the world because of its many health benefits, including skin health and cardiovascular health.
Heart Health
Omega-3 fatty acids are known to help thin the blood and reduce inflammation, both of which can help boost cardiovascular health.
Atherosclerosis
Eating plenty of fatty fish can help prevent a heart attack or stroke due to what is called coronary atherosclerosis, which occurs due to the narrowing of arteries as a result of a buildup of plaque on the artery walls. The fatty acids present in fish act as potent antioxidants and can prevent blood clots.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Oxidative stress, which is caused by a lack of antioxidants and omega-3s, has been associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Immune system dysfunction can also make an impact on brain health and disease risk.
Arthritis
Many nutrients can be found in fish for the health benefits, including providing relief from symptoms of arthritis, gout, migraines and IBS.
Diabetes
Cod liver oil is a low-fat, high-protein fish with no carbohydrates. It is an ideal meal for people with diabetes or at risk for the condition because according to a study by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, it probably has type 1 diabetes reducing properties.
Mood Improvement
Focus on hormone balance with the help of these fatty acids. Supports mood and nervous system health in addition to improving health overall.
High Blood Pressure
The great benefit of consuming cod fish regularly is that it can help reduce blood pressure, along with increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids. With data from the International Weekly Study of Macros and Micronutrients and Blood Pressure, any meal that contains cod fish will have your heart’s health in mind.
Muscle Health
Cod fish is an excellent source of protein that promotes growth and recovery of muscles. It’s also a great source of amino acids, selenium, zinc, and other minerals.
Immunity Levels
Omega 3 fatty acids, like those found in cold-water fish like cod, provide nutritional benefits. They help improve immune system strength and increase blood circulation.
Leukemia
Leukemia is cancer that occurs in a person’s blood cells. The treatment for it includes chemotherapy, radiation and iodine-rich foods. Side effects of these therapies include a loss of iodine levels in the body, which can cause fatigue.
Cholesterol
Cod is an excellent source of niacin, a B vitamin that is often used to help lower high cholesterol levels. Foods containing niacin are a good source of this vitamin that is often used to lower high cholesterol levels. [14]
Macular Degeneration
Fish always has had healing properties that can benefit people, and specifically ones who are above the age of 50. The omega-3 in fish lowers both early and late age-related macular degeneration risk.
Pulmonary Embolism
People who ate fish or crustaceans, such as shrimp or lobster, at least once a week had a 30-45% lower risk of pulmonary embolism. [16]
Asthma
Studies have shown that selenium, in cod fish, has the ability to reduce the risk of asthma attacks. These powerful antioxidants help reduce free radical scavenging activity and in turn, severe asthma attacks. Children who consume fish twice to three times a week are at a much lower risk of developing asthma than those children who do not.
Side Effects
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, there are some concerns with cod fish. Itola’s Fish Watcher app tracks stocks and makes it easy to find a lower mercury content variety of cod, if you’re interested.
Cod is a delicious and popular fish that contains few side effects. However, these can include: Mercury toxicity: It’s always important to know where the fish comes from-as mercury toxicity is a concern in seafood, and cod usually has moderate levels. Pregnancy women: If you are pregnant, it’s generally best to avoid cod for mercury toxicity reasons. Sodium content: Cod also tends to be high in sodium content, so moderation is always recommended.