Make friends with the fish

I hate fish.  I hate the smell, the taste, even the way it looks.  It never looks appetizing to me.  I don't know if I had some traumatizing fish experience as a young kid or if I just simply haven't had a well-cooked fish dinner, but I know I find it very difficult to swallow. 

Studies have shown, however, that fish is an important part of our diet.  Fish contains a high level of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proven to help a variety of medical issues, including heart disease, arthritis, high blood pressure and even depression.  Omega-3 helps to reduce the production of plaque, which can clog arteries to the heart and brain, leading to a heart attack or stroke. It has even been found to increase our brain function, more specifically our brain memory. 

It is important that we have a healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.  Many of us consume a large quantity of omega-6 acids from red meat.  Omega-6 is an essential acid for our bodies, but it also causes inflammation.  Since omega-3 reduces inflammation, it is important that we have a healthy balance between the two. Our bodies don't create omega-3, so we have to get it from the foods we eat. Doctors suggest that we eat 2-3 servings of fish per week to help supplement our omega-3 needs.

Salmon is the best source of omega 3, but there are also other food sources that contain omega-3.  Other fish sources include cod, tuna, snapper, and halibut.  Non-fish sources, such as walnuts, cauliflower, sardines, broccoli, and mustard seeds are great sources.  Cabbage, green beans, raspberries and strawberries are good as well.

There are supplements for omega-3.  Fish oil supplements, as well as flaxseed oil and cod liver oil, are great omega-3 supplements.  To better our bodies, we should try to change our taste buds to accept the fish taste, as well as include these supplements in our diets.  I'm struggling with this one.  Pray for me.

Contact Staci Cox at cox152@marshall.edu.