Mackerel, known as bangada in hindi, is one of the most widely consumed fish variety in India. Although bangada fry and curry are most preferred options, health conscious people can consume this fish in baked, steamed or grilled form.
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Uses
As an oily fish, it is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. The flesh of mackerel spoils quickly, especially in the tropics, and can cause scombroid food poisoning. Accordingly, it should be eaten on the day of capture, unless properly refrigerated or cured
Benefits
- Prevents heart disease One of the most effective ways to prevent heart disease is to consume diet containing good amounts of omega 3 fatty acids. Mackerel fish is not only rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids but also is also low in saturated fats. Hence eating this fish lowers your risk of heart complications like stroke,atherosclerosis,heart attacks and arrhythmia. Here are 6 natural remedies for a healthy heart.
- Lowers risk of diabetes
Mackerel contains a good amount of healthy fats namely monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) which play a key role in the prevention, as well as control of blood sugar levels in diabetics. Consuming this fish on a regular basis not only regulates blood sugar levels in the body, but it also lowers visceral fat, thereby lowering your risk of diabetes. You should also find out how you can prevent diabetes by choosing healthy fats.
- Controls blood pressure levels
In case you are a non-vegetarian by nature and suffer from hypertension, consume mackerel fish on a daily basis to keep your blood pressure levels within control. The high levels of potassium present in this fish helps in maintaining normal blood pressure in addition to lowering the risk of health complications associated with the condition. Read about foods rich in potassium.
- Reduces symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
Mackerel contains anti-inflammatory compounds which help in lowering the joint pain and stiffness of muscles in people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Including this fish in your diet while on medication is found to improve your condition by enhancing the efficacy of the drugs. Read about how omega 3-rich diet may keep joints healthy.
- Improves cognitive function
Research studies have proved that people consuming high levels of omega-3 fatty acids are at a lower risk of getting affected by depression. Hence, by adding mackerel to your daily diet, this food not only aids in reducing mood swings common in individuals suffering from depression, but it also improves the activity of antidepressant medications. Mackerel is loaded with DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid)and consuming this fish lowers your chances of suffering fromAlzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
- Increases survival chance of bowel cancer patients
Mackerel is one of the very few natural sources containing good amounts of vitamin D that is known to up the survival chances of bowel cancer patients. Research studies have proved that cancer patients with high blood levels of vitamin D are more likely to survive the disease, in addition to improving their health condition. Do you know these 10 ways to change your food habits and prevent cancer?
Cautions
While mackerel may be a healthier alternative to fatty meats, they also pose a health risk to pregnant women due to their high methyl mercury content. If consumed frequently, mackerel can have an adverse effect on the development of a child’s nervous system, while posing a significant health risk to the expectant mother as well. Pregnant women should be especially weary of king mackerel due to its high mercury content.
Interactions
No interactions are known. Please consult your pharmacist.
Other names
Bangada
References
Source: Thehealthsite, http://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/top-6-health-benefits-of-mackerel-bangada/
Symptomfind, http://www.symptomfind.com/nutrition-supplements/health-benefits-of-mackerel/