We all know that fish and shellfish are essential sources of nutrients; our diet would be woefully incomplete without them. However, we also know that an abundance of anything has its drawbacks. Yes, eating too much seafood can end up doing more harm than good (think mercury poisoning). The question is, how much is “too much”? Keep reading to find out.
Understanding the types of fish
Before you start buying seafood online in the UK, you should understand the different types of fish and how they can help you eat a healthier diet. Furthermore, different fish species have different nutritional values; to get an adequate amount of each nutrient, you should be mindful of what is on your plate.
The three main fish categories include:
● Oily fish
As the name implies, oily fish contain long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and are a good source of vitamin D. Omega-3 fatty acids are considered to be highly beneficial to both physical and mental health. It can treat a wide range of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, and arthritis. Oily fish include pilchards, herring, salmon, trout, sardine, sprats and mackerel.
● White fish
White fish should be your first choice if you want to eat low-fat seafood. They are considered as a healthier and lower-fat alternative to processed meat, which contains more saturated fat. White fish include dab, flounder, gurnard, tilapia, cod, haddock, plaice, pollock, red mullet and coley.
● Shellfish
Shellfish are high in protein, minerals, and healthy fats. Most shellfish live in saltwater and have many health benefits, including weight loss, improved immunity, and improved brain health.
They are classified into two groups:
Mollusks: These include scallops, clams, oysters, and mussels, to name a few.
Crustaceans: Common crustaceans include crayfish, crab, lobster, and shrimp.
How much of what?
Ideally, you should consume at least two portions of fish a week, including any one type of oily fish. While this is the ideal intake, there are certain types of fish that you cannot consume beyond the maximum recommended quantity. Here’s how much you should be eating of the types of fish mentioned above.
● The recommended intake for oily fish
As per the United Kingdom National Health Service (NHS), you should consume at least one portion of oily fish a week. Since oily fish contain low levels of pollutants, girls, women planning a pregnancy, and pregnant women should limit their consumption to no more than two portions per week. It is important to follow the prescribed intake for the baby’s healthy development in the womb.
● The recommended intake for white fish
Most white fish are 100% safe to be consumed without any restriction. However, when it comes to halibut, sea bass, sea bream, turbot, and rock salmon, you should follow certain measures. If you are a person who eats fish regularly, you should avoid eating these five types of fish as they also contain low levels of pollutants.
● The recommended intake for shellfish
There is no recommended maximum amount for shellfish consumption. So, you can immediately order your favourite shellfish by searching “seafood delivery near me.” A word to the wise: if you eat seafood daily, choose white crab meat over brown crab.
Now that you are an informed fish eater, you can visit our website and take advantage of our seafood delivery in London to get your favourite seafood. We guarantee that you will receive the freshest fish as well as a hassle-free delivery experience.