Dangerous fish to avoid on your holiday menu
The holidays are a time when fish dishes often take center stage on our tables. However, not all fish are safe choices. Which fish should be avoided to ensure the holiday menu doesn't harm our health? We have some tips!
Many people choose fish as the main dish for Christmas Eve during the holidays. However, eating certain species of fish can pose serious health risks. We explain which fish to avoid when preparing holiday meals.
Which fish should be avoided?
Pangasius is an example of a fish that should be avoided. Although its low price is tempting, the farming conditions of this fish are often subpar. In the Mekong Delta, where it is frequently farmed, pangasius is exposed to poor hygiene conditions. This increases the risk of bacterial infections and necessitates the use of antibiotics and hormones in its farming.
Butterfish is another example. While it is tasty, eating it may cause unpleasant stomach issues. The fat in its meat consists largely of paraffin derivatives, which are indigestible by the human body. Consuming it in large quantities can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea or nausea. Dietitians often recommend limiting butterfish consumption, especially for children, seniors, and pregnant women, as they are more susceptible to severe side effects. It might be worthwhile to reconsider fish options for dinner and choose alternatives rich in healthy fats, like wild salmon or cod, which are less likely to contain harmful substances.
Another popular fish that often appears on our plates due to its low price is tilapia. Its nutritional value leaves much to be desired. Although it looks appetizing, it is not the best choice for those seeking a healthy diet. Tilapia contains small amounts of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids but is rich in omega-6 acids, especially arachidonic acid. This can exacerbate inflammatory conditions in the body, which is particularly dangerous for people with heart diseases, joint problems, allergies, and asthma. This fish is often farmed in unfavorable conditions and may be subjected to intensive feeding with artificial feeds, further lowering its nutritional value.
Tuna, popular for its nutritional value, can, however, hide certain dangers. Long-lived fish, like tuna, often accumulate heavy metals in their bodies, primarily mercury. This occurs when the fish absorbs contaminated food from polluted marine environments. Consuming such fish, especially in large quantities, can lead to health problems such as nervous system disorders.
Which fish are worth choosing for the Christmas Eve table?
When selecting fish for the Christmas Eve dinner, it's important to consider their taste and nutritional value. Cod, trout, and salmon are species that deserve special attention.
Cod, with its delicate and white meat, is an excellent source of high-quality protein and vitamins, and it's a low-fat option for those mindful of their weight. Although less popular than carp, Trout offers delicate meat rich in selenium and B vitamins, which support heart and brain health. Meanwhile, salmon is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart functions and benefit blood vessels. Thanks to their culinary versatility, these fish can be easily prepared, from baking and frying to steaming, creating healthy and delicious holiday dishes.
