There are tons of health benefits of salmon. This fish is packed full of protein, vitamins and omega-3, which together can have all kinds of health benefits for the body. Below are just a few great reasons to eat more salmon. 

It’s a good brain food

Fish is often known for being a great brain food due to its omega-3 content. It’s believed that omega-3 can sharpen our memory by improving blood flow to the brain. Salmon contains more omega-3 than many other types of fish. On top of this it contains many other nutrients that are essential for brain function including selenium, vitamin A and vitamin D. 

It’s good for your heart too

Salmon is also good for your cardiovascular health. It’s loaded with potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure. The presence of omega-3 meanwhile helps fight inflammation in and around the heart, while also lowering cholesterol.

It can promote healthy skin

The rich amounts of vitamin A and omega-3 in salmon can help to promote healthy skin. On top of fighting inflammation, these nutrients can help to keep the skin supple, helping to reduce ageing. 

It’s good for your eyes

Omega-3 and vitamin A are also an important combo when it comes to improving eye health. Regular salmon consumption may even help to treat dry-eye syndrome while also preventing macular degeneration. 

It can help with healing

Salmon is rich in protein, which is essential for healing. If you have damaged muscles or bones, eating salmon regularly could help to ensure a speedy recovery. Salmon is also a favorite choice of fish for those that are bodybuilding – because it’s protein-rich it can help with muscle repair and muscle growth. 

Great ways to eat salmon to maximize the health benefits of salmon

There are many ways to cook salmon. Different cooking methods can affect the taste, texture and overall nutritional quality of the meat. 

• Baking salmon in foil is the healthiest option as it preserves much of the vitamin D. Season this with lemon and garlic for a tasty fish dish. Baked salmon is often served with foods like rice.

• Grilled salmon still packs a lot of nutrients and gives it a distinctive smoky flavor and seared texture. Marinades can help bring added flavor and color to this dish. Check out this salmon marinade recipe from Ask Chef Dennis for a great example. 

• Pan-frying salmon is another popular way of preparing this fish. This typically involves using more oil or butter than other cooking methods and can ultimately affect the healthiness of the dish, although you’ll still get most of the nutritional benefits. 

• Salmon can also be poached. This will give the fish a succulent and tender quality. Like frying however, expect some nutrients to be lost. 

It’s worth noting that the nutritional quality of salmon can be affected by where you buy your salmon from. Wild-caught salmon is often regarded as the healthiest choice because it is typically less fatty than farmed salmon. That said, farmed salmon tends to have higher quantities of omega-3.