Fish can Improve Men’s Health

Many men’s health problems can be helped or avoided by eating more fish. And now An Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) - the Irish State agency with responsibility for developing Irish Sea Fishing – has produced a new booklet to encourage men to up their intake of fish.

Heart and cardiovascular disease account for 43% of all male deaths.Yet research has found that eating fish at least once a week can reduce the risk of a fatal heart attack by as much as 52%. Men are particularly prone to heart disease, especially if there is any family history of the disease.

High triglyceride levels are quite common in men of all ages. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood that can build up and block arteries around the heart, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. Omega 3 fats, which are found in oily fish such as mackerel and salmon, help to reduce tryiglyceride levels.

The bone disease osteoporosis affects 1 in 5 Irish men. A diet rich in calcium is essential in preventing osteoporosis but your body can’t absorb any of the calcium you eat unless you have enough vitamin D. Oil-rich fish is one of the few natural sources of this vitamin.

The human brain is almost 60% fat and most of this fat is the omega 3 fat DHA. Recent research shows that Omega 3 will help boost your brain power, concentration and memory – so no more excuses for forgetting birthdays or anniversaries!

Fish is also a good source of protein. Protein is needed by the body to build and maintain healthy muscles. It is essential for growth – you won’t reach your full height potential without it – but it is also a key part of your immune system, helping you to fight colds, ‘flu and other infections.

For more information and recipes visit www.bim.ie/wellbeing
The booklet can be downloaded here

Posted Thursday 7th August 2008