Sardines, tiny fish living in cold waters, have long been known as a nutritious food source with a unique delicious flavor.Sardines are famous for high content of omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA and EPA.These two types of fatty acids play an important role in maintaining cardiovascular health, reducing inflammation, supporting brain and vision development.
However, few people know that the calcium content in sardines is very impressive, 3 times higher than the milk.Specifically, 100g of canned sardines provide up to 382mg of calcium, while the same amount of milk is only 123mg.In addition, sardines are extremely rich in vitamins and minerals essential to the body.Here are the unexpected health benefits of sardines not everyone knows.
Calcium sardines are 3 times more calcium.Photo: Getty Images
Cardiovascular protection
Omega-3 fatty acids in sardines work as "warriors" to protect the heart.They not only help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), enhance good cholesterol (HDL) but also prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaque.By reducing blood triglycerides and hypotension, omega-3 contributes to slowing arteriosclerosis, thereby significantly reducing the risk of stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases.
Strengthen brain health
The perfect combination of DHA and Vitamin B12 in sardines creates a "perfect couple" for brain health.DHA helps build and protect nerve cells, while vitamin B12 acts as a "carrier" of energy, helping nerve cells operate more effectively.Thanks to that, your brain will always be healthy, lucid and flexible
Supporting joint health
Not only rich in calcium, sardines also contain vitamin D, a nutrient that many other calcium -rich foods are often lacking.This combination helps the body absorb calcium more effectively than only calcium supplementation through dairy products.Therefore, sardines are a great choice to enhance osteoarthritis health, especially for those who do not tolerate lactose.
Sardines bring unexpected benefits to health.Photo: Shutter Stock
Increase the immune system
Vitamin D, Selenium and Omega-3 in sardines have the effect of boosting the immune system, helping the body against pathogens.Selenium is a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from free radical damage, thereby reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Good for pregnant women
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, are very important for the development of the brain and vision of the fetus.However, pregnant women should choose canned sardines with low mercury content and carefully processed before eating.
Reduce the risk of cancer
Some studies show that omega-3 in sardines can help reduce the risk of some types of cancer such as colorectal cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer.Selenium has also been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Improve mood
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, plays an important role in maintaining the structure and function of the brain.When adding omega-3 supplements from sardines, you are helping to improve mood, minimize depression and anxiety symptoms.Omega-3 works by enhancing the transmission of neurological signals, helping you feel more relaxed and optimistic.
Good for the eyes
The perfect combination of DHA and Vitamin A in sardines creates a "double shield" that protects your eyes.DHA helps protect the retina, while vitamin A helps maintain the transparency of cornea and retina, preventing dry eyes and night blindness.As a result, your eyes are always healthy and you can enjoy a colorful life.