I know that eating a varied and well-balanced diet is the best way to stay healthy, so I love knowing the health benefits of sushi. I have a very hard time turning down sushi because it’s delicious. Not all selections are good choices for your health, but mixing and matching ingredients lets you create a few rolls that contain plenty of vitamins and minerals. So go ahead and grab that take-out menu and pat yourself on the back because you’re about to know the health benefits of sushi too.
Quiz: Discover Your Sushi Preference
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What type of sushi do you prefer?
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1. It’s Low in Calories
No, this doesn’t apply to all the sushi options out there, but many rolls contain very few calories, which makes them an ideal addition to your diet if you want to lose weight or control your current weight. Opt for rolls that are heavy on vegetables, such as carrots, cucumber and avocado and go easy on rolls that contain mayonnaise, cream cheese or other creamy fillings. Fish is also relatively low in calories, so rolls that have salmon, tuna or shrimp are other good choices. When it comes to the health benefits of sushi, low calorie counts are a prime factor to consider.
2. It Contains Protein
Protein is vital for healthy muscle function and it also aids in muscle recovery after exercise. Protein is abundant in meat, including fish, which means your average sushi roll is going to contain a good amount. Stay away from rolls with crunchy fish or shrimp because they are often fried, which isn’t all that healthy. Instead, go for lean fillings, such as shrimp and tuna. You’ll get some protein, without a huge dose of fat.
3. It Protects Your Heart
Many sushi ingredients offer up protection for the old ticker. Rolls with brown rice give you a hit of whole grains, which help keep cholesterol in check. Add a dab of avocado and eel for omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep your heart healthy too. Make sure your choices aren’t doused in sugary sauces or soy sauce, both of which can counteract these health benefits, no matter how tasty they are.
4. It Offers up Antioxidants
When you choose sushi rolls made with vegetables, you’re doing something great for your health. Most contain antioxidants, which counteract free radical damage and keep you looking and feeling young and healthy. Not only that, but antioxidants can help ward off many scary health issues, including cancer and heart disease.
5. It Contains Trace Minerals
You don’t need mega doses of them, but trace minerals play a role in your overall health. Luckily for you, the seaweed in sushi saves the day. It contains concentrated amounts of many minerals, including copper, magnesium and iodine.
6. It Gives You Energy
Yes, you read that right! If you suffer from mid-afternoon slump, put down the chocolate bar and grab a couple of sushi rolls instead. The rice contains carbohydrates, which is your body’s main source of fuel. Opt for brown rice, which helps reduce the risk of a sugar crash later because it’s less refined than white rice. Any vegetables in the sushi also offer up carbohydrates.
7. It Aids Digestion
Many types of sushi contain rice vinegar, even if you don’t realize it’s in there. Rice vinegar is gentle on your digestive system and can help keep your digestion humming along as it should. You don’t need a ton of it either, so a couple of sushi rolls are ideal.
With so many sushi places out there, you’re sure to find one that gives you plenty of options while also benefiting your health. What’s your favorite type of sushi? I can’t get enough of the rolls that contain avocado and cucumbers.
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