Spring is a season of rejuvenation, with warm weather and beautiful scenery. It is also the season when fish are fat and shrimp are plump. After a winter of hibernation, fish become active and it is a great time to eat fish for health. So what are the benefits of eating fish in spring? Let's take a look together.
Four Benefits of Eating Fish in Spring
1. High nutritional value of fish meat
Fish meat contains about 18% protein, which is of good quality. It is also rich and comprehensive in amino acids, containing more than twenty essential amino acids for the human body. In comparison, the protein content of pork is only about 4% and it contains only about ten amino acids. The fat content of pork is about 6%, which is twice that of fish meat.
2. Fish meat has cognitive and brain health benefits
A population survey in China showed that coastal cities generally have higher average IQs than inland cities. Within the same city, families that love to eat fish have higher average IQs than those that do not. This is because modern scientific research has shown that more than 50% of the substances in the human brain are composed of unsaturated fatty acids, and fish meat is mostly rich in unsaturated fatty acids, which can provide sufficient nutrition for the metabolism of the human brain.
3. Reduces the risk of heart disease
Numerous scientific studies have shown that fish meat is rich in protein and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which can reduce blood viscosity, prevent myocardial infarction and stroke, and lower the levels of triglycerides in the body.
4. Enhances vision
A professor from the Australian National University published a research report on ophthalmology, stating that eating more fish can prevent age-related macular degeneration.
So, what fish is best to eat in spring? Let's take a look at the fish that are most suitable for consumption in spring.
1. Carp
Carp is a common type of fish, and according to traditional Chinese medicine, carp is a great food for nourishment in spring. Carp is suitable for people of all ages, especially for postpartum women who can benefit from its abundant nutrients and its ability to promote lactation.
2. Hairtail
Among marine fish, hairtail has a relatively high nutritional value. Hairtail in spring contains a large amount of unsaturated fatty acids and magnesium, which have certain effects on protecting the heart, nourishing the liver, and replenishing blood. However, it is important to note that hairtail can be fishy in taste, so it is recommended to cook it in a braised or fried way to reduce the fishy taste.
3. Silverfish
Silverfish has delicate meat and contains a large amount of protein, making it particularly suitable for infants to consume. Since silverfish has no bones or intestines, babies who are unable to pick fish bones can safely eat it. Experts suggest that parents can make silverfish into complementary food for their babies, as it is beneficial for their growth and development.
How to Cook Fish for Nutritional Benefits in Spring
Delicious Fish Soup
1. Fish head and tofu soup
Ingredients: 2 carp heads, 3 tofu blocks, 3 slices of ginger, oil and salt as needed.
Instructions: Cut the fish heads open and wash them, removing the gills and stagnant blood. Heat oil and ginger in a pot, sauté the fish heads until fragrant. Add 4 bowls of water, then add the tofu and simmer for about 1 hour.
Benefits: This soup has the effects of dispelling wind, nourishing the brain, promoting blood circulation, and reducing swelling. It is suitable for conditions such as wind-induced headaches and dizziness caused by hypertension.
2. Fresh fish and watercress soup
Ingredients: 1 fresh fish, 8 taels of lean meat, 1 jin of watercress, 6 honey dates
Instructions: Remove the scales and internal organs of the fresh fish, wash and drain, sprinkle with a little salt. Heat oil in a pot, pan-fry the fish until slightly golden. Wash the lean meat, blanch it in water, and rinse it with water. Boil an appropriate amount of water in the pot, then add all the ingredients and simmer for about three hours.
Benefits: This is a classic soup in Guangdong. Fresh fish, also known as black fish, is a carnivorous fish that is rich in amino acids and other nutrients that can restore vitality.
