Seafood Department Delivers Benefits for Brain and Bone Health

As consumers age, seafood becomes an increasingly important part of their diet due to its numerous health benefits, particularly for brain and bone health. Fish is rich in key nutrients like high-quality protein, iodine, selenium, zinc, and vitamins B12 and D. Among these, omega-3 fatty acids stand out for their profound impact on health.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Key to Heart, Brain, and Bone Health

Omega-3 fatty acids, which are primarily found in seafood, have been shown to deliver several crucial health benefits, especially for older adults. They reduce blood clots (which can cause heart attacks or strokes) by preventing platelets from becoming sticky, lower triglycerides, reduce blood pressure and inflammation, and increase good cholesterol levels. Additionally, omega-3s help prevent muscle and bone loss and may even protect against cognitive decline as we age.

A 2018 study published in The BMJ found that higher blood levels of omega-3s were linked to healthier aging, reducing the risk of chronic disease or serious physical and mental issues by 24%, compared to those with low levels.

American Heart Association Recommendations

The American Heart Association recommends that adults consume at least two 3.5-ounce servings of nonfried fish each week to reap the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.

Best Seafood Choices for Omega-3s

Consumer Reports organized a list of fish into categories based on their omega-3 content, highlighting the best options for heart, brain, and bone health:

Great Choices: High in Omega-3s

• Anchovies
• Atlantic mackerel
• Herring
• Oysters
• Pacific chub mackerel
• Sardines
• Shad
• Trout
• Wild and Alaskan salmon (both canned and fresh)

Good Choices: Lower in Omega-3s (but Still Healthy)

• Atlantic croaker
• Canned light tuna
• Catfish
• Crab
• Flounder and sole (flatfish)
• Haddock
• Lobster
• Mullet
• Pollock
• Shrimp (wild and most U.S. farmed)
• Tilapia
• Scallops
• Squid (wild)

Promote Health Benefits in Your Store

Given these substantial health benefits, retailers have an excellent opportunity to spotlight seafood as a source of essential nutrients, especially omega-3s. Educating shoppers about the importance of omega-3s for healthy aging, promoting sustainable sourcing, and offering recipe ideas that feature heart-healthy fish can position the seafood department as a key player in consumers’ health and wellness journey.

Time to Celebrate the Fishmonger With the growing awareness of the health benefits of seafood, it may be time to elevate the status of the store’s fishmonger, making them a culinary celebrity. Their expertise in seafood preparation and knowledge of health benefits can help customers make informed, healthy choices for their meals, fostering loyalty and increasing seafood sales.