The Many Health Benefits of Sushi
Writte by Isabella Boston
Sushi is a delicious Japanese dish prepared of vinegared rice and is usually combined with a variety of fish, seafood, and vegetables. The fish is oftentimes raw, but it can also be cooked. Most people primarily associate sushi with the fish, but the most important ingredient is actually the rice. In fact, Japanese chefs go through years of training to learn how to properly cook the rice long before they can handle the seafood or fish.
Sushi is prepared using a medium-grained white rice that is typically seasoned with sugar, salt, and vinegar. The most popular kind of rice used to make Sushi is Japonica, the Koshihikari cultivar to be exact. It is one of the two most leading kinds of Asian rice varieties and is extensively consumed and cultivated in East Asia. Japonica rice first originated in Central China approximately 9,500 to 6,000 years ago.
Health Benefits of Sushi[1]
Rich in Omega 3 ~ The omega-3 fatty acids from the fish in sushi can lower blood pressure, reduce triglycerides, decrease the development of plague in the arteries, reduce chances of abnormal heart rhythms, decrease the chances of a heart attack and stroke, and lessen the chances of sudden cardiac death in people diagnosed with heart disease.
Promotes Brain Health[2] ~ The fish used in sushi is also a major brain food and an excellent memory booster. The Omega -3 fatty acids repair and nourish brain cells while the protein and essential fats improve mental focus and concentration. Eating sushi regularly can protect the brain and enhance cognition.
Reduces Inflammation ~ Chronic inflammation is associated with a higher risk of diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and stroke. The Wasabi and seaweed (Nori) commonly used in sushi has strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Can Protect Against Respiratory Viruses ~ The ginger commonly eaten with sushi may protect against respiratory viruses.
Stabilizes Mood ~ The fish oils in Sushi may aid in the treatment of some serious mental conditions such as bipolar disorder and psychosis. Fish also contains high amounts of Vitamin B12 which fights waves of depression, anxiety, and brain fog.
Fights Wrinkles ~ Sushi is an excellent source of antioxidants which combats cell damage, stops permanent oxidative damage to the skin, and delays overall ageing.
Counteracts Osteoporosis ~ Fish is rich in calcium, the main mineral to promote healthy bones, hair, and nails. Consuming sushi frequently will not only keep joints healthy, but it can also ward off serious illnesses like osteoporosis.
Repairs Muscles ~ Because of the superior source of protein, sushi can aid in the recovery and repair of muscle damage. For maximum benefits, you should consume sushi at least two or three times a week.
Can Boost Your Sex Drive![3] ~ The omega-3 fatty acids in sushi causes the blood to flow better to your heart which will pump important chemicals, like dopamine, to trigger your sexual desire and drive.
Safety and Health Concerns of Sushi[4]
The raw fish in sushi can pose some health risk. It can contain parasites, harmful bacteria, and viruses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises[5] that sushi fish be flash frozen at below-zero temperatures to kill any potentially harmful organisms. However, there is no real monitoring of sushi chefs, so it is very important to only eat from a reputable restaurant or source.
If you are planning to dine out for sushi or want to order some take out, please do some careful research and check for positive reviews. Always store your prepared sushi in the refrigerator below 40 degrees, and if you purchase sushi at the supermarket, select the tray from the bottom of the fridge where the temperature is coldest. And please make sure you check the “sell-by” date to ensure the sushi is fresh.
People Who Should Avoid Sushi
Pregnant Women.
Young children or older adults with weaker immune systems.
People diagnosed with immune diseases or who take immune-suppressing medications.
Sushi can be a delicious choice of food with many health benefits when eaten from a reputable and trusted source. Some of the best wines[6] to enjoy with sushi are Albariño, Grüner Veltliner, Prosecco, and New Zealand Pinot Noir.
Bon Appetit!
*Fun fact ~ Did you know that Los Angeles is reportedly the first place to serve sushi in the United States? A man named Noritoshi Kanai, and his business associate, opened a sushi restaurant in 1966 in Little Tokyo and offered the first traditional nigiri sushi to Americans.
Author Bio
Isabella Boston
Isabella Boston is a multi-talented writer and the Founder of Bella’s Attic Studio. She has several years of experience in content writing, copywriting, and social media strategies. She is the author of the romantic and rare memoir, Passion of Flames. Isabella is currently working to spread awareness on the dangers and inhumanity of human sex trafficking. She has special interests in fashion and beauty, health and wellness, and natural healing as it pertains to the body, mind and soul.
References:
[1] Contributors, WebMD Editorial. “Sushi: Is It Good for You? Pros and Cons, Nutrition Information, and More.” WebMD, WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/diet/sushi-good-for-you. [2] Purcell, Victoria. “10 Health Benefits of Eating Sushi.” The Resident, 18 May 2022, https://www.theresident.co.uk/lifestyle/health-benefits-of-eating-sushi-8830696. [3] Carey, Annie. “Sex and Sushi: Is Sushi an Aphrodisiac?” Sushi Guides & Recipes, 24 Apr. 2022, https://ichisushi.com/is-sushi-an-aphrodisiac/. [4] Gilmerm. “Get the Scoop on Sushi Safety.” Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, 24 Aug. 2021, https://health.clevelandclinic.org/get-the-scoop-on-sushi-safety/. [5] Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. “Selecting and Serving Fresh and Frozen Seafood Safely.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/selecting-and-serving-fresh-and-frozen-seafood-safely. [6] AboutHaley MercedesI got a tattoo of grapes during veraison… does that make me a wine geek? Possibly. WSET diploma seeker @haley.mercedes. “Best Wine for Sushi? Try One of These.” Wine Folly, https://winefolly.com/wine-pairing/best-wine-sushi-try-one/.