The importance of the diet on our health in a global perspective
Obesity and other lifestyle related diseases are increasing in the western world. The World Health Organization (WHO) has estimated that 80 per cent of cardiac arrests, 90 per cent of diabetes type 2, and 30 per cent of cancers could be prevented with better diets, regular physical activity and quitting smoking.
In Europe, more than 70 per cent of the most important risk factors for non-communicable diseases are related to our diet. These diseases are closely related to excess weight and unhealthy living habits, highlighting the importance of a healthy diet.
Seafood is important for a balanced diet
A balanced and healthy diet is a prerequisite for good health. Fish and other seafood is an important part of a balanced diet and contribute to a good nutritional status. Children, young people, pregnant women and new mothers in particular eat little fish. A good nutritional status is especially important for these vulnerable groups. Seafood contains high levels of many important nutrients that are not commonly found in other foods. It is an excellent source of proteins, very long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium and iodine. We know quite a lot about the health effects isolated nutrients present in fish have, but little about how the combined effects of nutrients in fish, i.e. fish as food, contribute to better health. As far as seafood is concerned, it is the health benefits of consuming the marine omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA that are best documented.
Positive health effects from seafood
Epidemiological studies have shown that consuming seafood results in a lower risk of heart disease. The positive effects of a high intake of fish is related to the content of EPA and DHA which make your veins more elastic, prevent blood clots, reduce blood pressure, stabilise your heart rhythm, and thus overall reduce your risk of a heart attack. However, most studies on heart disease have involved pure fish oil or capsules containing various fish oils or pure EPA and DHA. In contrast, few intervention studies that assess the effects of a regular fish- and other seafood intake in relation to document positive health effects are available. .. Hence, NIFES focus the research into the documentation of the total health effect of eating seafood with respect to diseases such as, diabetes, obesity, multiple sclerosis and osteoporosis.
Last updated 8 March 2010