If you want even more reason to have the mouth-watering delicacy, sushi, with its countless health benefits, then we have good news – it’s National Sushi Day on 18th June. If ever there was a day to eat lots of sushi, it’s this one.
If you need to convince someone to come and eat it with you, then then with the help of itsu, the healthy Asian inspired eatery, here are some of the health benefits of eating sushi which are sure to encourage them to join you in a sushi eating extravaganza.
‘SUSHI’ YOUR WAY TO LESS INFLAMMATION
Sushi, is rich in Omega3 Fish Oils, which are classed as essential fats, as the body can’t make them. They have a host of health benefits; Omega3’s reduce high cholesterol levels and studies have found they lower the risk of heart disease and overall inflammation; lowering blood pressure, triglycerides and maintaining heart rhythm. In short, these oils keep all systems ‘well oiled!’
CUT CRAVINGS
As you may already know, fish, is an excellent source of protein that balances blood sugar and keeps energy levels stable. This leads to longer spells of satiety, enhanced metabolism and less snacking (between meals), encouraging steady and safe weight loss.
Read: 5 foods in the Japanese diet that could help you live for longer
FOOD FOR YOUR BRAIN
The fish in sushi is the number one brain food! The essential fats, or Omega 3 fatty acids, nourish and repair brain cells. As fish is also rich in protein and essential fats, it helps focus the mind, increase concentration and maintain energy, making sushi a perfect lunchtime option during your working day!
STABILISE YOUR MOOD
By regularly eating sushi, the fish oils may help with more serious conditions like psychosis and bipolar disorders. Fish is also high in Vitamin B12, which keeps the brain ‘happy’ and staves off bouts of depression, anxiety and brain fog.
Read: 6 IDEAL was Japanese dining could benefit you
PREVENT WRINKLES
Sushi is a prolific source of antioxidants, which slows down cell damage, prevents permanent oxidative damage to the skin and slows down overall ageing. These antioxidants preserve the cell structure of the skin, help keep cells younger both externally and internally and are an integral essential to all anti-aging diets!
GIVE YOUR BONES A BOOST
Fish is also an exceptional source of calcium and it is the primary mineral for bone health. Eating sushi regularly may help to keep joints healthy and stave off more serious conditions like osteoporosis. Calcium also forms the essential ‘building blocks’ for healthy hair and nails.
FORGO FORGETFULNESS
The high content of Omega 3 essential fats of the fish in sushi, helps with memory and can also help with cognitive function. Therefore, eating regular sushi meals is beneficial for all ages in order to help protect the brain and maintain healthy cognition function.
Read: 6 Delicious Tinned Sardine Recipe Ideas
SPEED UP MUSCLE REPAIR
Sushi is also an excellent source of protein and if exercising regularly, it may aid muscle repair and recovery. For maximum benefit have sushi at least twice or three times a week.
Indeed, Sushi can help speed up muscle repair after regular exercise due to the key nutrients it provides:
- Protein: Sushi often contains high-quality protein sources, like fish, shrimp, or tofu, which are essential for muscle repair and growth. Protein breaks down into amino acids in the body, which are the building blocks of muscle tissue.
- Carbohydrates: The sushi rice provides carbohydrates, which replenish your muscle’s glycogen stores after exercise. Glycogen is the primary fuel source for muscles during workouts. Restoring these stores helps muscles recover and prepare for the next workout session.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Fishes like salmon and tuna used in sushi are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties which can help ease muscle soreness after intense workouts.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Seaweed wraps in sushi are rich in iodine, which supports thyroid function, indirectly aiding muscle repair. Fish in sushi also provides Vitamin D, which plays an important role in bone health and muscle function.
It’s important to note that while sushi can be part of a balanced diet, it is high in sodium and sometimes high in refined carbohydrates and sugars, depending on how it’s prepared. If you’re watching your sodium or sugar intake, you might want to limit your sushi consumption
INCREASE IMMUNITY
Sushi is also packed with other essential co factor minerals, which play an important role in energy production and immunity. These minerals are Zinc, Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorous and Iron. Vitamin A, Carotene, Vitamin A and Retinol are plentiful too. Vitamin A and C are more prevalent in vegetarian sushi.
OPT OUT OF OBESITY
Sea vegetables like Kombu, Nori and Wakame, which are found in sushi, are high in iodine. Iodine helps in the prevention of hypothyroidism or low thyroid function, which if uncontrolled may lead to obesity and lethargy.
Now check out our recipe for Chilli Lime & Ginger Sushi Bowls. You won’t regret it!