Health Benefits of Fish: A Reference Guide from the Seafood Community
Reasons for increased consumption include the association between omega-3s and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
11/05/07 A multitude of studies and expert advice tout the health benefits associated with seafood consumption. The National Fisheries Institute (NFI), the source for seafood information, has created a useful reference diagram that summarizes these benefits.
Within just the past six months, landmark studies published in The Lancet journal, the Journal of the American Medical Association and by the independent Institute of Medicine recommend that Americans need to eat more seafood for its nutrient-dense protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Unfortunately, Americans are not eating enough seafood. The current average consumption is only one serving per week, while the U.S. government's Dietary Guidelines and MyPyramid recommend Americans include at least two weekly servings of fish in their diets. Reasons for increased consumption include the association between omega-3s and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
NFI works with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and international governments to supply Americans with healthy and sustainable sources of seafood. The health benefits of eating more seafood are widely known and established, and an essential component of producing enough fish to meet our nation's growing demand is the sustainable harvesting of wild capture species and responsible expansion of aquaculture.
NFI commends the FDA's "zero tolerance" policy for the use of unapproved antibiotics and chemicals in imported seafood products as well as FDA standards for wholesomeness of seafood products coming into the U.S.
