Salmon are usually classified either as Pacific (Oncorhynchus family) or Atlantic (Salmo family) salmon, according to the ocean in which they are found. There is just one species of Atlantic salmon, while there are five species of Pacific salmon including chinook (or king), sockeye (or red), coho (or silver), pink and chum. Norwegian salmon, a popular type of salmon often offered on restaurant menus, is actually Atlantic salmon that is farm-raised in Norway.
Benefits
Muscles, Tissues, Enzymes, Hormones etc.: Proteins or
amino acids are essential components of our cells, tissues, enzymes,
hormones and every other body part. The proteins from salmon (and most other
fishes) are easy digestible and easily absorbed into the body. They do
neither have any adverse side effects nor contain carcinogenic compounds,
like other meats do. Salmons are also source of good fat (omega-3 fatty
acids) which also plays a vital role in keeping you healthy. Salmon is also
rich in some of the very essential minerals like iron, calcium, selenium and
phosphorus and vitamins like A, B and D. Selenium, which is very necessary
for building up of tissues, hair, nails etc., is best obtained from animal
proteins and among which, salmon is one of the best.
Cardio-Vascular Health: While the Omega-3 Fatty Acids
help reduce cholesterol, maintain flexibility of arteries and veins and
strengthen cardiac muscles, the essential amino acids repair damages to the
cardio-vascular tissues. They help reduce the blood pressure too, as they
lower cholesterol level and prevent hardening of walls of arteries and
veins, thereby considerably reducing the chances of heart attack.
Metabolism: The Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin-D and
selenium, together help increase influence of insulin, thereby facilitating
absorption of sugar and consequent lowering of blood sugar level.
Eye Care: Again, the Omega-3 fatty acids and amino
acids help prevent macular degeneration, dryness, loss of vision and fatigue
of eyes. It is a proven fact that people who eat fishes regularly or more
than others, have better vision than others, longer.
Brain & Nerves: The Omega-3 fatty acids increase
efficiency of the brain, improves memory and keep it wide awake during long
working hours. In company with the amino acids, vitamin-A & D and selenium,
these fatty acids protect nervous system from damages from aging, act as
anti depressant, relaxes the brain and are also helpful in treating
Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Perhaps that is why the fish eaters are
supposed to be more intelligent than the meat eaters.
Other Benefits: Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation
of the arteries and digestive system, reduce chances of cancer of colon,
prostrate and kidneys etc., improve skin texture, add shining to eyes, skin,
hair and nails and help in the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon.
The fatter the salmon, the more nutritious and healthy it is. It is a good
protein supplement of older or sick people too, being easy digestible. In
some parts of the world, it is cheaper than other sources of animal proteins
such as meat, poultry etc.
