9 Health Benefits of Mackerel

Mackerel is a name used for various species of fish found mostly in the Scombridae family. Of the different types, the more commonly known mackerel are Cero, Atlantic, King and Spanish mackerel. Mackerels are known for their slim shape, numerous finlets and oily meat. The oily meat found on mackerel is where its main health benefits derive from. This fish oil, which is also known as omega-3 fatty acid, has shown to be so beneficial, it is made into a supplement.
Here's a detailed list of the numerous health benefits of mackerel :

Lowering triglycerides

High levels of triglycerides in the body have been linked to heart disease and stroke. The most common causes for a high triglyceride level are obesity and poorly maintained diabetes, mainly stemmed from an inactive lifestyle and a poor diet that includes a high intake of sugary foods, carbohydrates and alcohol. Fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like mackerel, have been proven to be very effective in lowering triglyceride levels.

Heart disease

Mackerel has been shown to be effective for, not only reducing the risk of heart disease, but also a deterrent for dying from heart disease due to its omega-3 fatty acids. Some researchers have found that omega-3 fatty acid is even more effective at reducing heart attacks than some commonly prescribed drugs used for lowering cholesterol.

Cholesterol

Bad cholesterol particles, also known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), are lowered by the fish oil found in mackerel, while good cholesterol particles, known as high-density lipoproteins (HDL), are increased by the fish oil found in mackerel. The fact that mackerel can help lower cholesterol levels by keeping cholesterol from being absorbed in the intestine, also allows it to help lower blood pressure.

Good for the blood

Mackerel and other fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids are good for the blood. They help with blood circulation and lower blood pressure by allowing blood vessels to expand and be more elastic.

Arthritis

Oily fish, like mackerel, have been known to reduce the pain, stiffness and swollen joints associated with arthritis. This makes mackerel a good supplement for pain medications.

Cancer

Mackerel can help you fight and prevent cancer by reducing the amount of agents that cause cancer in your cells, primarily in the breast, colon and prostate areas.

Weight loss

There are several different ways that mackerel can help with weight loss. Studies have shown that a regular intake of fish oil from mackerel or supplements, combined with exercise, can significantly decrease body fat. Mackerel also helps regulate the body's metabolism, and it can help decrease blood sugar in overweight people.

Mental health

Several studies have found a correlation between fish oil and a reduced risk of depression, suicide, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. Some cases even displayed an increase in brain activity and enhanced memory.

Immune system

Mackerel can help strengthen the immune system and improve overall body functions due to the amount of vitamins and nutrients it contains.