Mackerel is loaded with healthy nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and protein. This nutritious fish can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It also promotes brain health, fights depression and improves bone health. However, it’s important to make sure you choose fresh mackerel or canned mackerel that has been thoroughly rinsed and seasoned with lemon juice or other citrus juice before eating. This will reduce your chances of suffering from scombroid fish poisoning, which is a potentially deadly illness caused by eating fishes from the Scombridae family (like tuna and mackerel) that contain high levels of histamine, an amino acid.
Mackerels are rich in vitamin B-12, which is crucial for maintaining the health of your nervous system. Each mackerel fillet contains about 10 micrograms of this nutrient, which is enough to meet your daily requirement. Getting sufficient amounts of this nutrient can also prevent nerve damage by preventing the breakdown of myelin, a layer that helps your nerves communicate with each other. In addition, consuming mackerel regularly can also boost your red blood cell count and help stave off the anemia that is linked to low B-12 levels.
Besides being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, mackerel is also a good source of vitamin A and C, both of which are vital for a healthy immune system. Moreover, this fish can also provide you with a significant amount of selenium, which is beneficial for your body’s natural defense system. It can eliminate cancer-causing agents from cells and prevent the growth of tumors in your gastrointestinal tract, prostate, colon, breast and other areas.
Regular mackerel consumption can reduce your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, which may be linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular problems. This is because it can increase the production of HDL (“good”) cholesterol in your liver. Adding mackerel to your diet can also help you lower triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are fats that your body creates when it takes in more calories than it burns. Having high triglyceride levels can increase your risk of heart disease and fatty liver disease.
Mackerel can ease the pain and inflammation caused by arthritis, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, this nutrient can enhance the efficacy of medication you may be taking for this condition. It can also minimize the fatigue and muscle stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Mackerel can also strengthen your bones by providing you with vitamin D and the mineral magnesium. This nutrient is required for bone growth and to prevent osteoporosis.