Bord Iascaigh Mhara: Fish for Men

Category: Men's Health

Men's Health

Health is something we all take for granted - as long as we have it. Few of us think about taking more exercise, cutting back on alcohol or eating a healthy diet until some health problem or other comes along and forces us to take stock. The problem is that many of today’s health problems – high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease and some cancers – are largely avoidable with a little effort. So what stops usfrom putting all the good lifestyle advice we hear into practice?

MEN TEND TO DIE AN AVERAGE OF SIX YEARS YOUNGER THAN WOMEN

There is definitely room for improvement when it comes to looking after our health. Most of us already know that we need to eat lots of fruit and vegetables, take regular exercise and watch our weight to be healthy but sometimes the thought of all that effort can put us off.

Luckily, just increasing the amount of fish you eat every week can make quite a difference to your health. While nothing will substitute for an overall healthy lifestyle, eating fish, especially oil-rich fish, twice a week is a simple and tasty step on the road to good health.

FISH AND A HEALTHY BODY

Fish is rich in many vital nutrients including protein, B vitamins, selenium, iodine and zinc. Oil-rich fish is also an excellent source of omega 3 fats and vitamins A and D.

Omega 3 Fats

Omega 3 fats are special fats found in oil-rich fish that help maintain good health and prevent several diseases. Salmon, mackerel, trout and herring are all rich in omega 3.

Heart and Cardiovascular Disease Account for 43% of all Male Deaths

Research has found that eating fish at least once a week can reduce the risk of a fatal heart attack by as much as 52%. Men are particularly prone to heart disease, especially if there is any family history of the disease. Omega 3 fats help to reduce levels of triglyceride, a type of fat found in the blood that can build up and block arteries around the heart.