When most people think of the so-called “superfoods” recommended for healthy living, something out of a can doesn’t generally come to mind.
But one expert says there’s a shelf-stable supermarket staple that’s an essential part of every balanced diet — and most of us aren’t eating enough of it.
Cans of fatty fish — including sardines, mackerel and anchovies — provide a big boost to brain health, due to high levels of omega-3, Dr. Michael Moseley told the Daily Mail.
“Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid, which means it is vital for our health but, unfortunately, your body can’t produce it, so the only way to get enough of it is through your diet,” Moseley said.
He added, “Among other things, it keeps your brain cells healthy and talking to each other.”
While canned fish is relatively affordable, more than 90% of Americans are failing to meet recommended levels of omega-3 intake, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Nutritionists recommend at least 2 servings of oily fish per week. They also advise mixing up the type of fatty fish consumed.
If you’re concerned about both servings of fatty fish coming in a can, a fresh slice of salmon from the seafood counter is recommended.
But be careful not to overdo it — high intake of tinned fish can be an issue, as recently reported by podcast host Joe Rogan, who was reportedly diagnosed with arsenic poisoning after consuming three cans of sardines per night for a period of time.
For those who prefer to avoid fish entirely, Moseley told the Daily Mail that seaweed is also chock-full of omega-3.
That food, he says “sustained our ancestors down the millennia.”
Flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, olives and eggs are other known sources of omega-3.
Meanwhile, omega-3 supplements are wildly popular, but experts have recently cast doubt on their efficacy.
A study from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas found the labels on fish oil supplements routinely make health claims that are wholly unsubstantiated by any research.
“Based on what I’ve seen personally in the grocery store and pharmacy, I was not surprised to find such high rates of health claims on fish oil supplements,” study co-author Joanna Assadourian told Medscape Cardiology.