When it comes to the "best" bodybuilding foods in the UK, chicken and beef are often ranked higher than fish. Aside from canned tuna, the protein found in fish is not as highly regarded as that found in other types of meat. However, we believe that seafood should be given its due because it helps build muscle and is also a great way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. You can pick from almost fat-free fillets like flounder and sole or higher-fat variants like salmon — few foods on the planet are as rich in omega-3 fatty acids as salmon.
We are not arguing that chicken and beef should not be included in your bodybuilding diet plan — they absolutely should — but fish should also play a part because it has some advantages over other protein sources. Here are four reasons why seafood should be a regular diet component.
The Benefits of Adding Fish to Your Diet
Fish is Lean
When dieting to lose body fat, you must strike a balance between lowering overall calories, reducing fats and carbs, and increasing protein intake. Lean fish should be a constant in your diet since it fits all of these objectives. When weight reduction stalls on a diet, fish is a great food to turn to. Before you scale back on carbs even more when you hit a plateau, consider substituting a large portion of your dietary protein (which naturally contains fat) with lean varieties of fish. Most lean cuts of meat have more fat than lean fish — so you will be able to consume the same amount of protein while consuming fewer calories. This will allow you to keep carbs at a reasonably low consumption level while not feeling depleted.
Fish is High in Healthy Fats
It is no surprise that dietary fat is the most fattening of all the calories and carbs, protein, and dietary fat sources. This is attributable to the fact that fat is more efficiently stored as body fat than carbohydrates or protein. There is one exception — healthy fats like those found in fish. The healthy fats found in fish and omega-3 fatty acids are less likely to be stored as body fat than fats found in chicken legs, beef, egg yolks, or vegetable oil.
Fish has High Mineral Content
Most types of fish are high in selenium and iodine — two minerals that boost your metabolism. Iodine is needed to produce thyroid, the master gland responsible for calorie burning and metabolism. A healthy thyroid gland also leads to a healthy immune system, which is especially crucial when dieting or training heavy.
Fish is Easy to Digest
One downside of dieting is the risk of losing important muscle mass and gaining undesired body fat. The solution is to consume extra protein while on a weight-loss regimen. Instead of burning muscle mass, additional protein tricks the body into burning the excess protein for fuel. However, as protein consumes a larger percentage of calories, the body may have trouble digesting it. This is when fish comes into play. In terms of "texture," fish is softer and breaks up more easily than "denser" proteins like chicken breast, turkey breast, and lean cuts of beef, making it easier to digest. Because lean fish is a fast-digesting source of protein, it is also a fantastic pre-or post-workout meal.
Types of Fish that are Great for Muscle Growth
Cod or Tilapia
Cod and tilapia are excellent sources of lean protein, making them ideal for those looking to build muscle without adding extra fat to their diet. They are low in calories but high in essential nutrients, helping support muscle repair and growth.
Salmon
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for muscle recovery and overall health. Its high protein content and healthy fats make it a great option for muscle building and maintaining a balanced diet.
Sardines or Anchovies
Sardines and anchovies are small fish packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals. They are convenient and affordable options that can easily be incorporated into a muscle-building diet.
Serving Guide
Eat Fish Within an Hour of Exercise
Consuming fish within an hour after exercising can help replenish your body's protein needs and support muscle recovery. Fish provides a quick and easily digestible source of protein, making it an excellent post-workout meal.
Eat 2 Servings of White Fish a Week
Including at least two servings of white fish like cod or tilapia in your weekly diet ensures you are getting lean protein without too much fat. This helps maintain muscle mass and supports overall health.
Eat Oily Fish Once a Week
Oily fish like salmon or sardines should be consumed at least once a week to benefit from their high omega-3 content. These healthy fats are essential for muscle recovery and overall well-being.
Buy Fresh Seafood Online with our Seafood Home Delivery service
If you are looking for fresh seafood home delivery in Grimsby, Seafood Direct is the company to call. Click here to view our delectable selection of fresh seafood! If you have any queries regarding our seafood products or need to order a custom seafood box, please call us at 01472 566000 or email us at sales@seafooddirect.co.uk.
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