Sushi is a relatively new delicacy in the Western world; introduced with the last decade or so. In years gone past, the concept of chowing down on raw fish would have been completely alien to those used to steak and hamburgers. However, sushi has managed to make its way to the mainstream of popular consumption and now is a favorite among American diners.
This is a great positive for America. The Japanese diet is one of the best in the world, with Japanese people exhibiting the lowest risks of cancer and heart disease. Due to this, it is about time we explored more of their cuisine and introduced it into the everyday diet of Americans. So why not start with a new popular favorite, sushi. By why is sushi so good for you; what are the great health benefits a meal of sushi possesses which lead you to a healthier life style?
Healthy for the organs
Sushi is a great dish to promote heart health. The raw oily fish in sushi are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for keeping the heart in good shape. Omega-3 fatty acids are the ‘good’ type of cholesterol. This type of cholesterol helps to limit the ‘bad’ type of cholesterol, which reduces the risk of plaque build-up in the arteries, which could otherwise lead to serious conditions such as heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks. Equally omega-3 fatty acids help to lower blood pressure, which helps with the delivery of oxygen to the vital organs, assisting with their functions and increasing metabolism, which lowers visceral fat. Omega-3 fatty acids are also incredible for assisting with brain functioning, as anyone who takes supplements like Optimal Omega will know!
Prevents cancer
Although people only tend to think about the benefits of the fish when eating sushi, it is actually a comprehensive dish made up of varying parts. The ginger and the wasabi, important components in creating the deliciousness of sushi, have both anti-carcinogenic and anti-mutagenic qualities due to their high levels of antioxidants. Equally, oily fish used in sushi contain a mineral called selenium which has shown in various studies to be an excellent anti-carcinogen.
Leads to healthy blood flow
The fish used in sushi, coupled with the soy sauce, contain high levels of iron. Iron is extremely important in relation to the production of red blood cells. By increasing iron, it stimulates the body to produce more red blood cells which aid with healthy circulation around the body, as well as inducing hair growth and speeding up the recovery and production of tissue cells.
Aids digestion
The green tea that accompanies sushi is an all-around bonus for health. Full of anti-oxidants and nutrients, it aids in weight loss, cancer prevention, and brain function. In terms of digestion, green tea is a great aid as its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties mean that it prevents infections from entering the gut while also reducing inflammation that can lead to bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhoea. Equally ginger helps to encourage the production of saliva, bile, and gastric juices to aid digestion, while the oils in the ginger help to reduce bloating and intestinal cramping. This helps the food to move through the intestinal tract more easily, clearing any blockages.
So if you are looking to boost the brain and get the juices flowing round the body, tuck in to a little Japanese fish supper. You will be treating your organs to an anti-cancer treat while keeping everything moving just as it should! Don’t forget to throw in the green tea for good measure!
