Is Fish Fat Good for You?
Ask the Diva: Is Fish Fat Good for You?
Ask the Diva: Is Fish Fat Good for You?Q. I usually avoid eating fat on red meat. However, I believe fish oils have healthy omega-3 fatty acids. So if I get a piece of fish (like salmon or sea bass) with fat on it, am I better off eating the fat or pushing it to the side of my plate? Thanks!
Answer. You’re right; the fat in these fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which offer a variety of healthy benefits: they help to lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure, and also prevent blood clots, reduce inflammation, and balance the immune system. If you leave the fat from fish on your plate, you’ll be missing out on some of these healthy nutrients. You’d also be making your meal a bit lower in calories. Personally, I don’t find the fat on fish very appealing so I have to admit that I usually forego the nutritional bonus and leave it on the plate. Even trimmed of fat, fish like salmon and sea bass are good sources of omega-3s.
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About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.
