The Health Benefits of Sushi

Sushi tends to spark a great debate between many people. Some just don't like it while others love it. Then there are those who are simply turned off by eating raw fish, and understandably so. Yet again, however, there are those who love the exotic appeal of eating raw fish, or perhaps simply the rush they get from the courage it takes to try new things. Whatever the case you might be interested in knowing that there are actually many health benefits.

 

Low in Calories

This actually depends on how much sushi you eat. Sushi is ordered in portions and relatively small ones, and unlike other small snacks they don't overwhelm with fat or calories. One piece or “roll” of sushi typically boasts about 70 calories while a standard order of six can come between about 300-400 calories. So if you make that your full meal you should be ok, even with a little extra you should  fall in the guidelines of the typical 2,000 calorie diet.

 

Tip: To lower your calories even more you may remove some ingredients. For example, you might make your sushi roll a veggie roll to cut your calories by more than half

 

Nori

Nori is the special sea weed used to wrap the sushi. While not on all sushi it is very commonplace in the sushi world. It is packed Vitamin B6 and A Vitamins along with other essential nutrients and minerals. Some studies have even shown some of the nutritional value of nori to actually lower your blood pressure.

 

Something Fishy

Fish is considered healthy because it's in Omega 3 fatty acids the body needs and they are a lean, healthy source of protein. They also a solid source of Vitamin D. Omega 3s thrive in fish and are said to help fight cancer, that's why you're seeing see so many fish oil capsules at the store lately.

 

Precautions

Pregnant women should avoid sushi as it is recommended women avoid most raw meats and other uncooked or unprepared foods. In addition to the raw fish element, however it is also believed some sushi may be rich in mercury. Mercury is commonly avoided by women as it can adversely affect the pregnancy. This is also true for women who want to become pregnant or who are breastfeeding. In addition to keeping the babies away, however, you should also avoid mercury for yourself. Scientists believe that too much mercury can lead to problems with vision and memory over time. It can also cause headaches or even hairloss. To avoid high mercury fish simply stay away from swordfish, mackerel, and tuna, to name a few. Unfortunately tuna is one of the favorites among sushi enthusiasts.

 

Some Health Tips.

1.      Avoid dripping on too much soy sauce. It adds flavor and tastes great, but is atrociously high in sodium.

2.      Avoid high mercury fish at least in excess (see above)

3.      Ask for brown rice instead of white, it's healthier, will put on less pounds, and is rich with natural nutrition.