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Health Benefits of Fish

  • What are omega-3 fatty acids?
    Plate with Fish Dinner
    • Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) are healthy fats found in some fish. These are important fats that your body needs to work well.
    • Omega-3s include DHAs and EPAs, found in fish, and ALAs, found in plants.
    • Some fish like salmon, herring, and anchovies are naturally high in omega-3s.
  • Why are omega-3s good for me?
    • Omega-3s are great for brain growth and development in babies and children. They boost learning power and provide key building blocks for healthy growth.
    • The Mayo Clinic says omega-3s may reduce inflammation in your body. Inflammation can damage your blood vessels and lead to heart disease.
    • The American Heart Association says eating fish high in omega-3s may help to prevent heart disease in adults. Omega-3s may lower triglycerides, lower blood pressure, and reduce blood clotting. All of these are keys to good heart health!
    • Omega-3s also improve arthritis symptoms.

Download the Hooked on Fish Cookbook for some great fish recipes collected from people around the state!


Learn more about the health benefits of fish:

Mayo Clinic

US FDA & USDA

American Heart Association

Cartoon drawing of man with fish

In order to get the most health benefits from fish, choose fish that are safe and low in harmful chemicals. Learn how to choose safe fish:

Eating fish from a Michigan lake or river?

Buying fish from your local grocery store or fish market?

 


Want this information to go?  

Click here to print or download any of our fish materials.

Or you can call 1-800-648-6942 to request that a
MDHHS Eat Safe Fish packet be mailed to you.

Return to the MDHHS Eat Safe Fish homepage.