For many people, seafood is a delicious treat to indulge in every once in a while. However, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) notes that Americans are not eating enough and that every adult should have at least 8 ounces of fish and shellfish per week. Here’s why you should add more seafood to your diet.

Why You Should Eat More Seafood

1. High-Quality Protein

Seafood is a high-quality and complete protein, meaning it contains all 20+ amino acids necessary to make new protein in the body. Since fish and shellfish have less connective tissue than land animals, seafood protein is easier to digest. USDA guidelines recommend that 20% of your total protein intake comes from fish and shellfish.

2. Good Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for healthy development, but our bodies do not produce them on their own. That means they must be acquired from our diets. All fish contain omega-3s, but they are especially abundant in fatty fish like salmon, oysters, and tuna. Omega-3 fatty acids boost brain function, lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, and may decrease the risk of developing diabetes, dementia, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease.

3. Rich in Vitamins & Minerals

Seafood provides a varied assortment of essential nutrients. Most fish are a great source of vitamin A, vitamin D, B-complex vitamins, calcium, phosphorous, iodine, selenium, zinc, iron, magnesium, and potassium. These vitamins and minerals are critical for body function and a healthy lifestyle. For example, vitamin A contributes to vision, reproduction, and a strong immune system, while iron maintains healthy blood and carries oxygen to your muscles and throughout the body.

4. Low in Calories & Fat

Despite being packed with vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, fish and shellfish are relatively low in calories and total and saturated fat. One 3-ounce portion of even the fattiest fish has less than 200 calories. Most seafood contains less than 5% total fat, and the fattiest fish contain no more than 15% fat. Most of the fat in seafood is polyunsaturated, a healthy type that may contribute to a healthier heart.

When you’re hungry for seafood, visit Gulf Shores Restaurant & Grill for delicious and nutrient-rich coastal cuisine. With locations in Creve Coeur, MO, and Edwardsville, IL, guests can enjoy the best Cajun seafood around. Their menu features a variety of mouthwatering dishes made with authentic recipes, including Cajun-seared tuna, Malibu coco shrimp, blackened Mahi Mahi tacos, and spicy crawfish & okra gumbo. Visit them online to browse the menu, or call (314) 878-3306 to place a takeout or catering order.