Written by Lauren Campestre
Dietitian, Sprout Food Group
Prawns, oysters, tuna, crab…we’ve got it all! In Australia, seafood is ingrained in our cultural identity, which reflects the beautifully diverse marine ecosystems that surround our country. With an abundance of seafood at our fingertips, it's only right to cast a spotlight on it and tell you five things we as dietitian’s love about seafood here at Sprout Health Studio, and why you should incorporate more into your diet.
The health benefits (of course!)
Rich in high-quality proteins, vitamins, and minerals, seafood is a nutrient-dense option that supports overall health and wellbeing. However, it's the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna that truly set seafood apart.
These essential fatty acids can aid in:
- reducing the risk of heart disease1,
- lowering triglyceride levels2,
- enhancing brain function & health3,
- improving mental health conditions3,
- reducing inflammation throughout the body4,5, and
- reducing joint pain5
Additionally, seafood contains minerals such as zinc, iodine, and selenium, along with B-vitamins which contribute to the maintenance of a healthy immune system.
2. Versatility
Seafood is remarkably versatile, adapting to various cuisines and flavours easily. Whether grilled, delicately poached, or incorporated into vibrant salads and stir-fries, seafood cancater to diverse tastes and preferences. From casual gatherings to sophisticated dining experiences, its ability to shine in an array of dishes makes seafood an adaptable and crowd-pleasing choice.
3. Quick and easy preparation
One of the best qualities of seafood is it’s quick and easy preparation. With most varieties requiring minimal cooking time, seafood is a time-saving option in the kitchen. It’s natural flavours, ranging from the delicate sweetness of prawns to the richness of salmon, often need little more than a sprinkle of herbs or a squeeze of lemon to elevate them. This makes seafood a go-to option for those seeking delicious, hassle-free meals without compromising on taste.
4. There’s something for everyone and every occasion
Whether you’re grabbing a convenient can of tuna for lunch or selecting the perfect crayfish for your next dinner party, seafood can cater to everyone and every occasion. Regardless of your budget or local supermarket, the vast array of seafood ensures that everyone can enjoy a taste of the sea.
5. Sustainable choices
Australian seafood not only is delicious, but allows us to make conscientious, sustainable choices. The abundance of options, from MSC-certified fisheries to locally sourced varieties, allows consumers to align their seafood preferences with eco-friendly practices. Whether opting for responsibly caught wild fish or supporting ethical aquaculture, each choice becomes a step towards a more sustainable future. For more information, check out the Sustainable Seafood Guide on Good Fish.
With its rich nutritional profile, versatility, and quick preparation, it's no wonder Australians love seafood!
Try these delicious seafood recipes
Prawn and mango salad with nahm jim
Prawn and chorizo couscous paella
Jamaican salmon with pineapple salad & coriander sauce
As a Health Partners member, enjoy exclusive member discounts with Sprout Cooking School and Health Studio.
Member discounts at SproutDisclaimer
The information contained here is of a general nature and does not take into account your personal medical situation. The information is not a substitute for independent professional medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or used for therapeutic purposes. Should you require specific medical information, please seek advice from your healthcare practitioner. Health Partners does not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information provided.
While we have prepared the information carefully, we can’t guarantee that it is accurate, complete or up-to-date. And while we may mention goods or services provided by others, we aren’t specifically endorsing them and can’t accept responsibility for them.
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© Copyright Health Partners. 2024 All Rights Reserved.
Health Partners is committed to providing quality and affordable health care, and we value our members and our obligation to protect your privacy. As part of our responsibility in protecting your privacy, from time to time we review our policies to ensure we are meeting our obligations. We have recently made some updates to our Privacy Policy. Please click here to view the Health Partners Privacy Policy.