Fish and Crustaceans Flashcards
Fish: Benefits
- Complete protein, omega 3, Vitamin D, B2, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium, potassium.
- Oily fish (‘SMASH’) Sardines, Mackerel, Anchovies, Salmon, Herring (these are high in omega 3, vitamin D and lower in mercury due to their small size). Sardines are highest in omega 3.
Fish: Negatives
- Mercury, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and dioxins are often present in long living, predatory fish such as tuna, shark, swordfish.
- Overfishing severely reduced fish numbers in oceans and rivers.
Cod
Vitamin B3, B12, phosphorus, selenium
Tuna
Vitamin D, selenium, omega 3
Seabass
Vitamin B1, B2, A, C, calcium, phosphorus, iron
Mackerel
Vitamin D, B3, B12, phosphorus, selenium, omega 3
Trout
Vitamin D, B12, potassium, selenium
Salmon
Vitamin D, B3, B12, selenium, phosphorus, omega 3
Farmed Fish
• Always opt for wild caught fish (not farmed), and avoid canned fish which compromises the nutritional content (esp. vitamin C).
• Farmed fish are raised in overcrowded cages and tanks in contaminated water. They:
- Contain dyes and toxic chemicals (PCB’s, dioxins, faecal waste, mercury, pesticides, antibiotics, fungicides).
- Lower omega 3 content.
- Are vaccinated and de sexed.
- Have more diseases and deformities.
- Are cruel and bad for environments & ecosystems.
Crustaceans and Shellfish: Benefits
• Complete protein, omega 3, vitamin B12, zinc (esp. oysters), iron, magnesium.
Crustaceans and Shellfish: Negatives
- Crustaceans are high in cholesterol.
- Food poisoning is common.
- Prawns are intensively farmed in Asia.
- Waste feeders that accumulate toxins (incl. mercury).
- Ensure to avoid unless from guaranteed clean water sources.