Cod has many benefits which make it a great part of a person’s diet. Its benefits include high protein, low fat, vitamins and minerals, it has a low mercury risk and it is safe to eat while pregnant.
Most fish are naturally high in protein which is a critical part to the human diet. For every 100 grams of cooked cod, there is 20 grams of protein. Protein helps cells structure, their function and their regulation and operations. Additionally, protein has amino acids which are not made by the human body and are not available in plants.
Protein should be consumed every day as the body stores it differently than other nutrients. Some other sources of protein such as red meat and cheese are not as healthy to consume in large amounts. Protein, along with a good diet, can help reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Cod contains omega-3 fatty acid which is important to the functions of cells and help the cardiovascular, endocrine and immune systems work. Omega-3 protects against cardiovascular disease and can only be consumed through outside sources. The human body does not produce this on its own.
Cod also contains important vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, C, E and several kinds of B vitamins including B-6 and B-12. Vitamins are important to many bodily functions including metabolic processes and brain function, nerve development and blood health.
They can even help prevent blood problems like anemia. Cod contains minerals such as phosphorus, potassium and selenium. Potassium helps the muscles and nervous system grow and function. Phosphorus keeps bones healthy, regulates the heart beat and helps keep the kidneys’ function normally. Selenium allows for normal thyroid function, helps with reproduction, the production of DNA and the function of the immune system.
The three ways to eat cod are to steam it, grill it or bake it. Cod is said to go well with a side of vegetables and curry and many like to make it into pie or use breadcrumbs to coat it. Fish sticks and fish filet are readily available, but they are not as healthy. Eating cod while pregnant is generally safe and, though low in mercury, pregnant women should take note to how much they eat.
The Food and Drug Administration recommends women consume 8 to 12 oz. of fish a week. Generally speaking, cod can be consumed in moderate amounts by anyone without any negative effects.
Are you interested in formulating your own personalized diet plan to ensure you’re getting the most nutrients from your food? Be sure to visit my main site for more information on how to get the most nutritional benefit from every meal.