People in their senior years tend to eat more salmon, and therefore, more of the health enhancing Omega-3 fatty acids compared to other age groups.
Scientific studies have shown that long chain Omega-3s can help to minimise the risks of numerous conditions, many of which are often linked with the natural ageing process.
Heart Health
The long chain Omega-3s in salmon, EPA and DHA, are a great way of maintaining a healthy heart, and medical trials with these essential fatty acids have also shown that there is a significant protection from a further incident for people who have already suffered from a cardiac condition.
A major study into heart disease found that eating one to two servings of oil-rich fish every week appears to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by 25%.
Eyesight
Omega-3s are a component of the retina, so maintaining healthy levels of these essential fatty acids may slow down the deterioration of eyesight.
Mind
Progressive brain dysfunctions such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease and other conditions of mental deterioration can be lessened with the maintenance of healthy levels of Omega-3 fatty acids.
A 10-year study of some 8,000 people (published in Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association) found that Mediterranean diets high in fish helped slow cognitive decline.
Participants with the greatest adherence to the Mediterranean diet had the lowest risk of cognitive impairment. High fish and vegetable consumption appeared to have the greatest protective effect.
Bones
The consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids can help to improve the quality of life for osteoporosis patients, by reducing bone pain and increasing mobility and function.
Joints
The anti-inflammatory properties of the Omega-3s EPA and DHA may reduce joint pain and stiffness caused by arthritis. A diet rich in these fatty acids may also allow people with arthritis to reduce the need to rely on conventional anti-inflammatory medicines.
Muscles
Scottish salmon is packed with nutrient rich, high quality protein. Such protein is beneficial in rebuilding muscles and repairing connective tissues.
Mental Health
Fish-oil consumption helps support levels of serotonin – the feel-good hormone. Without Omega-3s, your serotonin won’t work as it should. This is also why Omega-3s may improve depressive symptoms!
All in all, Scottish salmon is something of a super-food - full of high quality protein, essential Omega-3 fatty acids and rich in niacin, vitamin B6 and riboflavin.