Rules to Follow while Eating Seafood !

If you are in the habit of reading the health and the dietary magazines, you must be aware of the fact that seafood consumption is good for health. Shellfish and fish are packed with nutrients and help to prevent heart disease, lower blood pressure and bring down the risk of strokes and heart attacks. However, seafood contains mercury as well, capacitated to affect the development of the brain and the nervous system. Thus, it is crucial to follow a few guidelines while incorporating seafood into the diet.

Here are a few rules to follow while consuming seafood.

Include Variety

Seafood is a great source of minerals, proteins and vitamins apart from omega 3 fatty acids that are linked to brain health. The seafood restaurants in Sandgate offer multiple variants. Since different flavours, as well as textures are available, finding seafood that appeal to each and every person on the table is easy. Include some that are high in omega 3s and low in mercury like trout, salmon and oysters. However, make sure not to consume more than 8 ounces of seafood a week. If you are cooking them yourself at home, try roasting, grilling, baking or boiling to steer clear of extra fat. To add flavour, try chilli powder, cumin, lemon or lime juice.

Avoid Eating the Larger Fish

Avoid eating the bigger fish like king mackerel and swordfish. Since the bigger fish tends to contain higher mercury content, they are better to avoid. They are unable to eliminate mercury as fast as they took it in. Children and women of childbearing age should avoid them.

It is better to opt for the smaller and the silvery fish. They are rich in omega 3 fatty acid and are one of the best ways to eat healthy.

Clean the Fish Properly

If you are preparing the fish by yourself, it is crucial to clean it as thoroughly as possible. Clean the fish by trimming down the skin and the fatty tissues. Since seafood is comparatively more perishable as compared to other items, it is crucial to handle it properly. Proper handling, storage as well as preparation help to maintain quality and ensure safety.

Introduce One Seafood at a Time to Toddlers

Introduce only one type of seafood to the toddlers at a given point in time. If the child has a reaction, it would be easier to identify the offender. Make sure to wait at least 72 hours before introducing another seafood in the diet.

Remember that food allergies usually occur somewhere between a few minutes to a few hours after having a new food. If your toddler develops rashes, facial swelling, irritability, itching, vomiting or nausea, you need to get in touch with a medical practitioner immediately.

Research shows that seafood helps our body in several ways. It

• Protects the heart
• Clears the vessels
• Prevents osteoarthritis
• Keeps eyes healthy and bright
• Offers body the requisite nutrients
• Helps skin look great
• Boosts brainpower

Make sure you are following the guidelines while you consume seafood to accrue the health advantages.