The Alaskan salmon is the most prolific of the salmon that reside in the Pacific Ocean, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The five species that populate Alaska include the Chinook, coho, chum, sockeye and pink. The scientific name for salmon is salmonidae. In 2003, the commercial and recreational Alaskan salmon revenue totaled an estimated $960 million, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
Low Toxin Levels
The Alaskan waters and the salmon population are effectively monitored. The contaminant levels in Alaskan salmon are low compared with salmon in other regions and other fatty fish species. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, adults and children up to ages 6 to 12 can safely eat four or more servings of Alaskan salmon monthly. The EDF advises that Alaskan salmon PCB levels are moderate, and children up to age 6 can eat as many as three servings monthly.
High Omega-3 Levels
A 3.5-oz. serving of Alaskan salmon contains 1.4 g of omega-3 fatty acids. The World Health Organization recommends consuming 1.1 g of omega-3 fatty acids daily. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and platelet aggregation, lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. They also supply the brain with the high concentration of fats it requires to function optimally.
Prevents Cancer
Eat fewer sources of unhealthy fats and implement healthy fat sources in your diet, HelpGuide.org advises. The American Heart Association says eating fatty fish twice a week provides optimal nutritional benefits and prevents consumption of excessive toxins, such as PCBs and heavy metals, that can cause cancer. Alaskan salmon is among the types of fish recommended.
Nutritionally Dense
A 3-oz. serving of Alaskan salmon contains an estimated 21 g of protein, 223 mg of phosphorus, 360 mg of potassium, 31 mcg of selenium, 307 IU of vitamin D and only 146 calories. Low-fat sources of protein are essential anchors of any healthy diet. Protein neutralizes the blood-sugar-fluctuating effects of carbohydrates. Vitamin D levels for many Americans are lower than the recommended amount, and dietary sources are relatively rare. The vitamin is essential for building and retaining bone density.
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