What makes salmon such a nutrient-dense food?
• Omega-3 fatty acids: a 6 ounce serving of salmon can provide 2 whole grams of long-chain omega-3s! Remember that omega-3 fatty acids protect against many forms of cardiovascular disease, enhance metabolism, and improve hormone balance and cell signaling, lowering inflammatory potential in the process. • Available, high-quality protein: all essential amino acids, plus taurine, are included. Fish protein is the most easily digested of all non-vegetable protein. A 3.5 to 4 ounce serving of grilled Atlantic salmon provides 39 grams of protein! • Vitamins and minerals: salmon is a good source of vitamin A, niacin (B3) and other B complex vitamins, selenium, potassium, and magnesium. Salmon also has a high level of Vitamin D. A Boston University study found that wild salmon (unspecified species) had 988 IU of vitamin D per 3.5 oz serving. Farmed salmon was found to have only 25% of that level (245 IU). By comparison, the next best vitamin D fish source is ahi tuna at about 404 IU.
