The seafood diet plan uses fish and shellfish as your primary source of protein at every meal for one week. Fresh seafood is a healthier alternative to meat because it is low in fat, cholesterol and sodium. Seafood is beneficial in your diet because it contributes vitamins, minerals and omega-3 fatty acids. Supplement seafood with fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds for a balanced diet. Women that are pregnant or nursing and children should not follow this diet plan because seafood is potentially dangerous if contaminated.
Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Oily fish such as tuna, salmon and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids. According to the National Marine Fisheries Service, omega-3 fatty acids prevent your body from producing hormone-like substances called eicosanoids. Eicosanoids are linked to arthritis, asthma, heart disease and stroke. The Reader's Digest Association says omega-3 fatty acids lower cholesterol levels and triglycerides to help prevent heart attacks.
Function of Vitamins
Seafood is an excellent source of the B-complex vitamins. B-complex vitamins include thiamine, niacin, pyridoxine and vitamin B12. In "The Food Bible," author Judith Wills states that these water-soluble vitamins are needed for the growth and development of the nervous system. B-complex vitamins play a role in food digestion and metabolism.
Types of Minerals
The seafood diet plan provides you with several different minerals. Small fish such as sardines are a good source of calcium. Calcium is a mineral needed for growing strong bones and teeth. Oysters, lobster, shrimp and crab contribute iron and zinc to your diet. Iron carries oxygen from the lungs to all the cells in your body while zinc strengthens the immune system. Seafood in general is a good source of iodine, phosphorus and selenium. Fresh seafood is low in sodium, which makes it an ideal food if you are trying to restrict your sodium intake. Limit processed products that have added salt such as smoke, cured and canned seafood.
Significance of Protein
During your week-long diet plan, seafood is your primary source of protein. Protein is an essential nutrient that is composed of amino acids. Nine of these amino acids cannot be manufactured by your body and so you have to get them from food. Seafood provides all nine essential amino acids. The body uses amino acids for the growth and maintenance of muscles and tissues.
Warning
ABC News reports fish absorb a toxic metal called mercury from polluted water and eating contaminated fish and algae. Larger fish such as tuna, swordfish, king mackerel and shark have the highest levels of mercury contamination because they live longer and the toxins build over time. If you consume large amounts of fish, you are at risk of experiencing mercury poisoning. This can cause both physical and neurological damage. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends pregnant women and young children do not eat seafood. The Reader's Digest Association says it is safe for adults to consume about two to three servings of seafood a week.
References
- National Marine Fisheries Service: Seafood and Your Health
- "Foods That Harm Foods That Heal"; The Reader's Digest Association Inc.; 1997
- "The Food Bible"; Judith Wills; 1998
- ABC News: How Safe is a Seafood Diet?
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