Seafood is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, all of which are essential to optimal health. Seafood is a delicacy in many coastal communities in Nigeria and is becoming extremely popular in urban regions. In addition to being excellent for your general health, seafood can also benefit your skin. Seafood is a fantastic addition to any healthy skincare routine due to the high amounts of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that it contains. Here, will explore some of the healthy seafood in Nigeria and their benefits.

Health Benefits Of Seafood In Nigeria

1. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Seafood is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for your heart health, significantly reducing inflammation, and enhancing brain function. Eating seafood twice a week can drastically reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

2. Beneficial For Brain Function

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid found in seafood, is essential for brain function and development. Eating seafood daily can help enhance memory and concentration while also lowering your risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and also reducing your risk of depression and anxiety.

3. Eye Health

Seafood contains vitamins and nutrients that are beneficial to eye health, such as vitamin A, zinc, and selenium. However, these nutrients may help to prevent the development of age-related macular degeneration as well as other eye diseases.

4. Reduces Inflammation

Seafood is high in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, which can help decrease inflammation and help improve your skin appearance. Because inflammation is a significant cause of skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, eating seafood can help decrease the intensity of these conditions.

5. Moisturizes Skin

Seafood includes healthy and nutritious fats, such as omega-3s, which can help keep your skin moisturized and smooth. This is indeed essential for maintaining healthy skin and avoiding dryness and flakiness absolutely.

6. Protects Your Skin from Sun Damage:

Seafood is packed with antioxidants like selenium and vitamin E, which can help protect your skin from UV ray exposure. It can really assist in preventing ageing and reduce your risk of skin cancer.

7. Healthy Heart:

Eating seafood has indeed been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. Seafood, in particular, is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce blood pressure, and inflammation, as well as your risk of heart attack and stroke.

8. Beneficial to Bone Health:

Vitamin D and calcium, two powerful nutrients essential for the maintaining of healthy bones, are abundant in seafood. Eating seafood daily can actually reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis as well as other bone-related diseases.

9. Increases The Production Of Collagen:

Collagen is a protein that is required to maintain healthy skin. Seafood is packed with minerals and vitamins that stimulate the production of collagen, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, as well as zinc. Eating seafood daily can actually boost the elasticity and smoothness of your skin.

Healthy Types Of Seafood In Nigeria

1. Tilapia:

Tilapia is a type of freshwater fish that is popular in Nigeria. Tilapia is rich in protein, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.

2. Shrimp:

Shrimp is a common seafood in Nigeria, and it can be found in a variety of recipes including stews and soups. Shrimp is rich in protein, vitamin B12, as well as zinc which is essential for the production of collagen and can help decrease inflammation in your body.

3. Catfish:

In Nigeria, catfish is a popular seafood that is used in recipes such as pepper soup, stew, and soup. Catfish is rich in protein, vitamins B12, and omega-3 fatty acids which are essential for the production of red blood cells and nerve function. Additionally, it has a low calorie and fat content, making it a fantastic choice for weight loss or weight management.

4. Sardines:

Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, both of which are crucial for good skin, are abundant in sardines. Additionally, they contain a lot of protein, which can enhance the tone and texture of your skin.

5. Oysters:

Oysters are rich in zinc, selenium, and vitamin E, all of which can improve the appearance of your skin and well-being.

6. Periwinkles:

Periwinkles are a kind of sea snail that is widely eaten in Nigeria. They are low in calories and fat, and they are additionally rich in protein.

7. Prawns:

Prawns are a type of seafood with a high amount of protein and low-fat content. They are also rich in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can help protect your cells from damage. Iron, which is essential for healthy blood cells, is also abundant in prawns.

8. Salmon:

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D, all of which are beneficial to healthy skin. It also has astaxanthin, which is an antioxidant that can help protect your skin from sun exposure.

9. Crayfish:

Crayfish is a tiny freshwater crustacean that is widely used in Nigerian cuisine as a seasoning. It is rich in protein and low in fat. Crayfish is however rich in choline, which is essential for brain health and nerve function.

10. Mackerel:

Mackerel is a popular Nigerian seafood that is also one of the healthiest. It contains a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart and can help reduce inflammation in your body. Mackerel is also rich in vitamin D, which is essential for your bone health and immune function.

11. Crab:

Crab is another popular seafood in Nigeria, where it is used in cuisines like pepper soup, soup and jollof rice. Crab is rich in protein, B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.

12. Tuna:

Tuna is a popular seafood that is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It is delicious and prepared in a variety of dishes like stews and soups.

Bottom line

Seafood is an excellent source of nutrients and has numerous health benefits. Seafood is a popular and extensively consumed food that is readily available in Nigeria. It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals that are necessary for good health and can help lower the risk of heart disease, brain disease, eye disease, and osteoporosis. Eating seafood daily can help enhance, bone health, and skin and hair health. It can help decrease inflammation, stimulate the production of collagen, moisturize your skin, and protect it from sun damage. Adding seafood to your diet is a simple and delectable way to improve your health and well-being while also achieving healthy, glowing skin.