All fish? Some fish? What fish?
What fish is good for us, and yet not detrimental to the ecology by over exploitation?
Let’s first determine what is harvested from our oceans. “Estimates indicate only 30 to 40 percent of all that is captured is unwanted by-catch, meaning that about a third of all seafood caught is tossed overboard dead, bringing no benefit to humans” as reported by the Harvard School of Public Health.
Americans eat about 16 pounds of seafood per person per year. And amazingly, about 95 percent of that comes from only ten species. And three of them, salmon, shrimp and tuna account for more than 60 percent of our seafood consumption.
The system is skewed to these few species, and ignores many others that are equally as healthy and fit for consumption, but not known, preferred or requested. Many are also more affordable. Next trip to the fish market, instead of ordering cod, order the freshest fish they have available. Here are some excellent alternatives:
Source: National Geographic Ocean initiative
And the really good news:
• People who eat a diet high in fish lower their risk of a heart attack
• Enjoy a modest benefit of reducing depression
• Tend to have lower body fat and less apt to suffer diabetes
Bottom Line: Eat more fish and try new species. You will enjoy both health and ecological rewards.
About First Care
Founded in 2012, our veteran-owned clinic is both patient-centered and knowledge-driven. For individuals who have non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses, our urgent care center is a convenient and affordable alternative to overcrowded and expensive hospital emergency rooms. Additionally, because we also serve as a primary care provider, we believe in creating a meaningful, long-term relationship with each patient based upon open communication, shared understanding, and mutual respect. We are proud to provide the following services to the community:
If you have any questions, please feel free to Contact Us or “Walk In” at our Walk-in Clinic in Naples.