Eat this one fish and glow!
Have you ever had the feeling like you’ve just gotten a massive dose of something that makes your body feel REALLY good? I get this feeling whenever I eat a can of Alaskan Sockeye Salmon. There’s something special about Sockeye salmon that just hits different. It could be that it’s packed with the skin and bones (a good natural source of calcium), or vibrant red oils (the pure, wild fish oil) or a hefty dose of protein (about 46 grams per can). Most likely, it’s all the above, and then some.
This week I want to focus on the benefits of Sockeye salmon, and why you should consider making it a staple in your diet. I truly believe that you can eat your way to your best health, as long as what you eat is a healthy, whole food, that is well tolerated by your body (your mileage may vary). This is unique to every person, but here are a few of the reasons why I love to eat a can of Sockeye salmon for lunch 2-3 times a week (and my favorite way to eat it at the end, which is highly controversial on social media)!
Here’s what you need to know about our Alaskan Sockeye Salmon:
Harvested from the crystal-clear waters of Alaska, our sockeye salmon is a nutritional goldmine. Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids (essential for a healthy heart, sharp brain function, and reducing inflammation throughout the body) and a fantastic source of high-quality protein (crucial for building and maintaining muscle mass). Plus, it’s rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals that support everything from enhanced vision to radiant skin. When you eat Sockeye salmon, you can truly “glow from the inside out”!
But why canned Sockeye salmon? For most of us, convenience is a must. It’s the perfect, no-fuss addition to any meal, ready to boost any dish with its rich flavor and myriad health benefits. It’s ready and fresh the moment you open the can, no additional cooking required.
Sockeye salmon is exceptionally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, which are crucial for maintaining heart health by reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing risk factors for disease. These fatty acids also support brain health, potentially reducing the risk of dementia and mental decline.
It’s a high-quality protein source (almost 50 grams of protein per can!) which helps to repair tissue, protect bone health, and maintain muscle mass during weight loss and the aging process.
Sockeye is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, and is an excellent source of several B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12), which are necessary for energy production, controlling inflammation, and protecting heart and brain health. Also a good source of vitamin D, crucial for bone health and immune function, and selenium, important for thyroid and hormonal health.
Sockeye salmon also contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that gives the fish its distinctive red color. Astaxanthin has been linked to reduced risk of heart disease by improving the elasticity of blood vessels, reducing inflammation, and combating oxidative stress.
It’s very low in mercury, making it a safe choice for regular consumption, especially for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children.
Choosing wild-caught Alaskan sockeye salmon not only supports a healthy diet but also promotes sustainable fishing practices. Alaska’s fisheries are well-managed to ensure the long-term health of salmon populations and their natural habitat.
Why Sockeye Salmon is a Must-Have in Your Diet
Here are just a few reasons why incorporating our canned Alaskan Sockeye salmon into your diet is a smart choice for your health:
- Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to cardiovascular health, helping to lower blood pressure, reduce triglyceride levels, and decrease the risk of heart disease.
- Brain Booster: The DHA found in omega-3s is essential for maintaining brain health, improving memory, and may even protect against cognitive decline.
- Muscle Maintenance: With its high protein content, sockeye salmon supports muscle repair and growth, making it a perfect post-workout snack.
- Glowing Skin: The vitamins and minerals in sockeye salmon, such as vitamin A and selenium, are fantastic for keeping your skin healthy and glowing from the inside out.
- Easy and Versatile: Canned sockeye salmon is incredibly versatile and can be added to a wide range of dishes, ensuring you get a dose of nutrition no matter how busy your schedule is.
Okay, so now you know the *why*, but what about the *how*? We have several recipes on our website that you can use for inspiration, everything from pasta to burgers. My favorite way to eat the sockeye is a little…controversial. I never realized it was “weird”, but why don’t you try it and you tell me if you think it’s weird or not!
SueAnna’s Sockeye Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 can Oregon’s Choice Gourmet Sockeye Salmon 7.5 oz
- Fresh spinach
- Walnuts
- Almonds
- Pumpkin seeds
- Dried cranberries
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- A nice vinaigrette (I like Bragg’s)
In a wide bowl add the spinach first, then add the sockeye salmon (you can either remove the skin and bones or leave them in. The flavor is consistent either way). On top of the salmon sprinkle the nuts and dried cranberries, then add the berries around the rim. Top with a nice vinaigrette dressing and enjoy outside in the sunshine whenever possible for that extra dose of vitamin D!
Some call it “Bear Food”, I just call it Lunch! I hope this has inspired you to give Sockeye a spot in your weekly meal rotation, and that it brings you health and happiness.
Cheers!
-SueAnna
