
Sardine facts and health benefits
Sardines are small, oily fish that belong to the family called Clupeidae. They are also known by the name pilchards in some places. It is named after an Italian island “Sardinia”, where it was possibly first found abundantly. These fish are found mostly in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, as well as the Mediterranean Sea. According to a report, in the past, sardines were the single largest component of fish harvesting done around the world. They generally come as canned fish and they are commonly known as canned sardines. Although sardines are regarded as a single species, there are actually 21 types of fish that can easily fall under the category of sardines. They are commercially fished for foods and variety of uses, including animal feed, sardine oil used in manufacture paint, varnish and linoleum. Some of the most popular species of sardines include sardina, sardinops, sardinella, and dussumieria.
Physical Appearance
Sardine is small, flat, silvery, elongated fishes which are covered with large, reflective, silvery scales. It has single short dorsal fin, no lateral line, and no scales on the head. They range in length from about 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 inches) and live in dense schools, migrating along the coast and feeding on plankton, of which they consume vast quantities. In the middle of their belly, they have a set of specialized scales, known as scutes, which are jagged and point backwards. Having very small teeth or no teeth at all, sardines eat plankton, which they filter from the water through their gills. They are small in size, little oily and are soft boned.
History
The exact origin of sardines is unknown but they are believed to have existed in abundance along the Mediterranean island of Sardinia, from where the fish derived its name. Though sardines have always been existing credit for their discovery goes to Napoleon Bonaparte, who gave it immense popularity. It was he who started the idea of producing canned sardines. With an excess of nutrients and supplements present in sardines, they become famous seafood in different parts of the world. Spain, France, Portugal and Norway are the major producers of this fish, rich in oil. However, the largest percentage of the world’s sardines come from Morocco, a leading exporter and supplier of these salt water fish. Sardines, unlike other fish, are less contaminated with mercury and other chemicals, which is another point in its popularity.
Nutritional value
Apart from their strong fishy taste, sardine is a good source of nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Consuming 149 gram of sardine offers 13.32 µg of Vitamin B-12, 78.5 µg of Selenium, 730 mg of Phosphorus, 36.68 g of Protein, 569 mg of Calcium, 4.35 mg of Iron, 7.815 mg of Vitamin B3, 17.06 g of Total Fat, 7.2 µg of Vitamin D, 0.277 mg of Copper and 457 mg of Sodium. Moreover many Amino acids 0.411 g of Tryptophan, 1.608 g of Threonine, 1.69 g of Isoleucine, 2.981 g of Leucine, 3.367 g of Lysine, 1.086 g of Methionine, 0.393 g of Cystine,1.432 g of Phenylalanine and 1.238 g of Tyrosine are also found in 149 gram of sardine.
Sardine Types
There are several varieties of Sardine, all members of the Herring Family, and each variety is probable to be known by a number of local names. Larger fish may be sold fresh but many millions are canned every year, packed in water, oil, mustard sauce and tomato sauce, with and without hot chilies. Morocco is the largest producer of canned sardines in the world, providing 41% of the world’s exports. Unfortunately, in my opinion, those canned just about anywhere else are better.
Health Benefits of Sardines
The presence of good amount of macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients in sardines without having a high fat content makes them very useful for our body. Below are some of the most important benefits of sardines.
1. Reduced Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition which is commonly seen among people age 50 or more Macular and retinal degeneration over the years results in loss of vision. Recent research has shown that taking fish, mainly fish like sardines, lead to the reduced risk of developing AMD. On the other hand, taking regular fat or saturated fat can increase the risk of developing AMD. Everything in moderation! Studies also strongly suggest that the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids also reduces the risk of dry eye syndrome, a common cause of ocular complaints.
2. Sore throats
Sore throats may range from a mild situation to a major condition. Regular consumption of sardines with a hot cup of milk helps to calm down the uneasiness on the throat and also brings down the swelling.
3. Anti-Cancer Properties
Cancer research has shown that the intake of calcium and vitamin D can be very helpful in preventing certain types of cancers, including colorectal cancer. Sardines are one of the best sources of calcium and vitamin D. So including sardine in your regular diet help to fulfill your calcium and vitamin D requirement.
4. Skin Health
Skin is always a best friend of people. No one can refuse to have a healthy and glowing skin layer without any signs of damage. Therefore, many people don’t hesitate to pour a huge amount of money on costly beauty products. However, these goods sometimes do not meet people’s expectation as they may go together with some adverse effects. Instead, people can select some natural ingredients to improve their skin condition. Among many foods which nature has offered us, sardines are popular. Not only can sardines reduce inflammatory levels, it can also make you look younger and more beautiful.
5. Blood Clots
When it comes to benefits of sardines, many people refer to its good influence on blood clots. It is undeniable that blood clots are really dangerous factor. Facts have shown that they can seriously trigger improper function of heart system. By providing the body with omega-3 fats, people can efficiently prevent blood clot formation. Thus, the chance of high blood pressure or cholesterol levels will also smaller. Amusingly, sardines are packed with a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Immunity
The massive benefits of sardines make them an ideal method to foster immune system. In fact, immunity plays an important role in the body system. Its function is to seek for and fight against the attack of any foreigners. Thus, any damage to immunity will completely affect people’s health. Scientific research has concluded that oil extracted from sardines can increase the number of immune cells, which makes it a promising food for immunity.
7. Prevention of Heart Diseases
Sardines are wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids which is quite helpful for preventing heart diseases. The omega-3 fatty acids found in them play a major role in controlling heart diseases. Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA or Eicosapentaenoic Acid and DHA or Docosahexaenoic Acid break down bad LDL cholesterol in the body and help in preventing heart diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids are also known to break down arterial plaque, which blocks arteries and increases blood pressure. By clearing the plaque, these fatty acids help in controlling blood pressure as well
8. Strengthens Bones
As mentioned previously, sardines are a good source of calcium, and regular calcium helps in strengthening bones. Good amount of calcium, together with exercise can strengthen bones and prevent diseases like osteoporosis, in the future.
9. Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance is one of the major factors to look for in diabetes. In cases where there is insulin resistance, the insulin produced in the body is utilized less efficiently. This, in turn, means that there is more glucose in the blood than there usually should be. Some researches have shown that insulin resistance can be reduced by consuming sardines. The protein found in sardines has shown itself to be effective in decreasing insulin resistance, compared to casein protein.
10. Defends Against Mood Disorders Including Anxiety & Depression
As we have discussed before sardine is a wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids, sardines nutrition can help to prevent mood disorders including anxiety and depression.
Many recent researches have focused on omega-3s impact on mental health, mostly EPA, and are concluding that these essential fats can play a vital role in boosting mood and maintaining healthy brain function, helping you to beat depression. The brain itself is made up of roughly 60% fat, so obtaining the right ratio of fatty acids is critical for the function of the central nervous system and your overall mood.
11. Reduces inflammation and risk of disease
Sardines are an excellent source of EPA and DHA, which are two fatty acids that studies show the body, uses to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is at the root of most diseases. If you want to “spice up” the anti-inflammatory defense, add a little bit of turmeric when you are preparing your sardines.
12. Joint Support
Joint damage starts when your body is exposed to inflammation, as happens during conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout and other forms of joint pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids are helpful, but come with several drawbacks as well. The best option is “Sardines”. Frequent consumption of sardines can save you from joint pain and inflammation by suppressing the formation of inflammatory mediators and suppressing the damage inflicted by free radicals.
13. Helpful in Weight Loss
Adult sardine, pilchards, helps you to lose some fat. This fish increases metabolism rate of your body and burns fat at a faster rate. In addition to an effective fitness program, a healthy food would help you achieve your weight/fat loss goals. If you’re planning to lose weight/fat, then include sardines into that plan.
14. Healthy Growth and Body Development
Sardines are a perfect blend of all the essential amino acids, which in turn are essential for the protein synthesis in our bodies. Amino acid is good for our cells, connective tissues and muscles. They also contribute in improving the distribution of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Most prominently, almost all of your immune system is made up of proteins, which acts as a barricade against the foreign invaders.
15. Brain Health
Increased oxidative stress is the key pathology in a variety of brain disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and autism. Although all antioxidant in sardines play their role in saving brain from oxidative damage, but Omega-3 fatty acids deserve special mention here. Results from countless clinical studies have shown that eating fish and fish oils, containing omega-3 fatty acid saves from brain from oxidative stress. In fact, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation is a known adjuvant in the therapy for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and autism.
Physical Appearance
Sardine is small, flat, silvery, elongated fishes which are covered with large, reflective, silvery scales. It has single short dorsal fin, no lateral line, and no scales on the head. They range in length from about 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 inches) and live in dense schools, migrating along the coast and feeding on plankton, of which they consume vast quantities. In the middle of their belly, they have a set of specialized scales, known as scutes, which are jagged and point backwards. Having very small teeth or no teeth at all, sardines eat plankton, which they filter from the water through their gills. They are small in size, little oily and are soft boned.
History
The exact origin of sardines is unknown but they are believed to have existed in abundance along the Mediterranean island of Sardinia, from where the fish derived its name. Though sardines have always been existing credit for their discovery goes to Napoleon Bonaparte, who gave it immense popularity. It was he who started the idea of producing canned sardines. With an excess of nutrients and supplements present in sardines, they become famous seafood in different parts of the world. Spain, France, Portugal and Norway are the major producers of this fish, rich in oil. However, the largest percentage of the world’s sardines come from Morocco, a leading exporter and supplier of these salt water fish. Sardines, unlike other fish, are less contaminated with mercury and other chemicals, which is another point in its popularity.
Nutritional value
Apart from their strong fishy taste, sardine is a good source of nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Consuming 149 gram of sardine offers 13.32 µg of Vitamin B-12, 78.5 µg of Selenium, 730 mg of Phosphorus, 36.68 g of Protein, 569 mg of Calcium, 4.35 mg of Iron, 7.815 mg of Vitamin B3, 17.06 g of Total Fat, 7.2 µg of Vitamin D, 0.277 mg of Copper and 457 mg of Sodium. Moreover many Amino acids 0.411 g of Tryptophan, 1.608 g of Threonine, 1.69 g of Isoleucine, 2.981 g of Leucine, 3.367 g of Lysine, 1.086 g of Methionine, 0.393 g of Cystine,1.432 g of Phenylalanine and 1.238 g of Tyrosine are also found in 149 gram of sardine.
Sardine Types
There are several varieties of Sardine, all members of the Herring Family, and each variety is probable to be known by a number of local names. Larger fish may be sold fresh but many millions are canned every year, packed in water, oil, mustard sauce and tomato sauce, with and without hot chilies. Morocco is the largest producer of canned sardines in the world, providing 41% of the world’s exports. Unfortunately, in my opinion, those canned just about anywhere else are better.
Health Benefits of Sardines
The presence of good amount of macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients in sardines without having a high fat content makes them very useful for our body. Below are some of the most important benefits of sardines.
1. Reduced Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition which is commonly seen among people age 50 or more Macular and retinal degeneration over the years results in loss of vision. Recent research has shown that taking fish, mainly fish like sardines, lead to the reduced risk of developing AMD. On the other hand, taking regular fat or saturated fat can increase the risk of developing AMD. Everything in moderation! Studies also strongly suggest that the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids also reduces the risk of dry eye syndrome, a common cause of ocular complaints.
2. Sore throats
Sore throats may range from a mild situation to a major condition. Regular consumption of sardines with a hot cup of milk helps to calm down the uneasiness on the throat and also brings down the swelling.
3. Anti-Cancer Properties
Cancer research has shown that the intake of calcium and vitamin D can be very helpful in preventing certain types of cancers, including colorectal cancer. Sardines are one of the best sources of calcium and vitamin D. So including sardine in your regular diet help to fulfill your calcium and vitamin D requirement.
4. Skin Health
Skin is always a best friend of people. No one can refuse to have a healthy and glowing skin layer without any signs of damage. Therefore, many people don’t hesitate to pour a huge amount of money on costly beauty products. However, these goods sometimes do not meet people’s expectation as they may go together with some adverse effects. Instead, people can select some natural ingredients to improve their skin condition. Among many foods which nature has offered us, sardines are popular. Not only can sardines reduce inflammatory levels, it can also make you look younger and more beautiful.
5. Blood Clots
When it comes to benefits of sardines, many people refer to its good influence on blood clots. It is undeniable that blood clots are really dangerous factor. Facts have shown that they can seriously trigger improper function of heart system. By providing the body with omega-3 fats, people can efficiently prevent blood clot formation. Thus, the chance of high blood pressure or cholesterol levels will also smaller. Amusingly, sardines are packed with a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Immunity
The massive benefits of sardines make them an ideal method to foster immune system. In fact, immunity plays an important role in the body system. Its function is to seek for and fight against the attack of any foreigners. Thus, any damage to immunity will completely affect people’s health. Scientific research has concluded that oil extracted from sardines can increase the number of immune cells, which makes it a promising food for immunity.
7. Prevention of Heart Diseases
Sardines are wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids which is quite helpful for preventing heart diseases. The omega-3 fatty acids found in them play a major role in controlling heart diseases. Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA or Eicosapentaenoic Acid and DHA or Docosahexaenoic Acid break down bad LDL cholesterol in the body and help in preventing heart diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids are also known to break down arterial plaque, which blocks arteries and increases blood pressure. By clearing the plaque, these fatty acids help in controlling blood pressure as well
8. Strengthens Bones
As mentioned previously, sardines are a good source of calcium, and regular calcium helps in strengthening bones. Good amount of calcium, together with exercise can strengthen bones and prevent diseases like osteoporosis, in the future.
9. Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance is one of the major factors to look for in diabetes. In cases where there is insulin resistance, the insulin produced in the body is utilized less efficiently. This, in turn, means that there is more glucose in the blood than there usually should be. Some researches have shown that insulin resistance can be reduced by consuming sardines. The protein found in sardines has shown itself to be effective in decreasing insulin resistance, compared to casein protein.
10. Defends Against Mood Disorders Including Anxiety & Depression
As we have discussed before sardine is a wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids, sardines nutrition can help to prevent mood disorders including anxiety and depression.
Many recent researches have focused on omega-3s impact on mental health, mostly EPA, and are concluding that these essential fats can play a vital role in boosting mood and maintaining healthy brain function, helping you to beat depression. The brain itself is made up of roughly 60% fat, so obtaining the right ratio of fatty acids is critical for the function of the central nervous system and your overall mood.
11. Reduces inflammation and risk of disease
Sardines are an excellent source of EPA and DHA, which are two fatty acids that studies show the body, uses to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is at the root of most diseases. If you want to “spice up” the anti-inflammatory defense, add a little bit of turmeric when you are preparing your sardines.
12. Joint Support
Joint damage starts when your body is exposed to inflammation, as happens during conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout and other forms of joint pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids are helpful, but come with several drawbacks as well. The best option is “Sardines”. Frequent consumption of sardines can save you from joint pain and inflammation by suppressing the formation of inflammatory mediators and suppressing the damage inflicted by free radicals.
13. Helpful in Weight Loss
Adult sardine, pilchards, helps you to lose some fat. This fish increases metabolism rate of your body and burns fat at a faster rate. In addition to an effective fitness program, a healthy food would help you achieve your weight/fat loss goals. If you’re planning to lose weight/fat, then include sardines into that plan.
14. Healthy Growth and Body Development
Sardines are a perfect blend of all the essential amino acids, which in turn are essential for the protein synthesis in our bodies. Amino acid is good for our cells, connective tissues and muscles. They also contribute in improving the distribution of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Most prominently, almost all of your immune system is made up of proteins, which acts as a barricade against the foreign invaders.
15. Brain Health
Increased oxidative stress is the key pathology in a variety of brain disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and autism. Although all antioxidant in sardines play their role in saving brain from oxidative damage, but Omega-3 fatty acids deserve special mention here. Results from countless clinical studies have shown that eating fish and fish oils, containing omega-3 fatty acid saves from brain from oxidative stress. In fact, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation is a known adjuvant in the therapy for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and autism.