Salmon is probably one of the most discussed and favored fish around, however, it rarely features on breakfast tables. It is one of the richest sources of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, a trove of cardio protective compounds, and can be readily cooked into a variety of scrumptious breakfast dishes. Need more reasons to eat salmon for breakfast? Then read on…

Benefits of eating salmon for breakfast

1.Promotes brain development and function

Salmon is one of the best natural sources of the essential fatty acid DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). This compound is involved in the growth and development of brain and the nervous system. Research has shown that regular intake of breakfast salmon improves thinking ability and cognition. Moreover, the amino acid tryptophan present in these fish helps produce serotonin, which is involved in positive mood modulation and helps keep a person happy and stress free through the day.

2.Prevents degenerative and inflammatory diseases

Apart from antioxidant nutrients like selenium, EPA, and DHA, salmon provides a unique class of compounds called Protectins. These protectins play an important role as anti-inflammatory molecules and prevent aging and free radical damage of cells particularly in the nerve tissue. The antioxidant compounds of salmon together work to prevent incidence of degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, age related Macular degeneration, etc.

3.Protects against cancers

Salmon provides high amounts of selenium and Vitamin D. These 2 nutrients along with the anti inflammatory action of omega fatty acids have shown significantly positive results in preventing incidence and progression if certain types of cancers, including colorectal cancer, leukemia, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

4.Cardio-protective benefits

Presence of high levels of selenium and omega fatty acids, combined with presence of lean protein and low saturated fat content in salmon seem to be involved in preventing a number of cardio vascular ailments, including  stroke, heart arrhythmia and high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and heart attack.

5. Prevents a plethora of bone and connective tissue diseases

Salmon is a particularly good source of copper and phosphorus. These two minerals act in tandem to prevent several diseases such as osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis.

Tips to include salmon in breakfast

Lack of ideas to prepare breakfast salmon seem to be one of major reasons for salmon losing favor as a morning food. For those who struggle with this problem, here are some scrumptious recipe ideas…

• Salmon Benedict: Give a healthy twist to the traditional Eggs Benedict – the quintessential Sunday breakfast. Substitute ham with a piece of smoked salmon fillet. The dish will taste at least 10 notches better.

• Salmon with French toast: Try adding pieces of salmon to your French toast. If you have time, try making an elaborated layered French toast, with layers of bread, egg, diced vegetables, and salmon slices. it is not only tasty and filling, but with the addition of veggies will make the morning meal a nutritionally balanced venture.

• Salmon sandwich:  This might be one of the most easy to prepare and versatile breakfast dishes ever. All you need is some smoked salmon fillet, sandwich bread slices, and an assortment of adjuncts to add flavor to your breakfast. Just assemble all the ingredients and you are ready to go.

• Salmon casserole:  Those who love an elaborate “Big breakfast” casserole is the dish to have. This dish is filling, complete with all nutrients, food groups, and will keep you going all the way until afternoon lunch.

If contaminant risk is what making you have second thoughts about including salmon for breakfast, then worry not, for organic salmon is easily available today. It is not only a healthier option, but also a more eco-friendly way of consuming seafood.

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