By Justin Mistry
Sardines! They probably bring a fishy thought to your mind, they’re small, slimy looking, and they’re actually really good for you. In this article, you will find comparisons and recommendations on why you should start including sardine in your diet. Before we begin with the benefits, let’s bust a couple of myths:
Myth #2: Mercury poisoning: the larger the fish is, the higher the concentration of mercury. Sardines are small fish at the bottom of the food chain that feed on plankton.
Myths busted, now let’s check out some benefits.
Osteoporosis
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a chronic condition called osteoporosis (decrease in bone density), they most likely have been prescribed a drug or supplement that will provide a high dosage of calcium, and told to consume a diet rich in “high-calcium” foods such as:
• Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Calcium-fortified beverages (orange juice, plant-based milk)
• Green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach)
When compared to the foods listed above, sardines have a much denser nutrition profile and can be included in their nutrition program as a whole food protein source. Per 100g, sardines contain 176% of your daily value of calcium almost 15 time as much calcium as the equal weight of whole milk. Not to mention that because sardines are consumed whole (minus internal organs) they also provide additional nutrients such as vitamin D, which aids in the absorption of calcium, and phosphorus, which is part of the bone matrix. As long as your digestive system is in good health, sardines can provide high doses of very bioavailable calcium, vitamin D and phosphorus.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Another chronic condition that sardines can help with is hypertension. Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. Sardines contain ACE inhibitors (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme), which reduces blood pressure by dilating the blood vessels. Sardines also contain Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) which help blood pressure by lowering triglyceride levels in the blood.
Muscle Building, Weight-loss and Craving Control
The last points to convince you to give them a try. Even if you do not currently have chronic conditions such as osteoporosis or hypertension, sardines are high in protein, so they help us control cravings. Protein takes longer for the body to digest, meaning it will sit for a longer time in our stomachs. Protein is made up of amino acids and these synthesize new muscle tissue. The more muscle tissue you have and the higher the metabolism (energy need) of the muscle, the more calories you burn. The more calories you burn, the more potential for weight-loss.
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