Is Tilapia Good For You?

People should consume at least 8 ounces of seafood each week according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate scheme. Among the choices around, tilapia could be the best when it comes to being a great protein source. Just like the other types of seafood, this contains significant amounts of calcium, fat, and or course, protein. In addition to these health benefits, this does not contain high amounts of cholesterol, which makes it a healthy choice if you want to lower your risk of atherosclerosis and other heart diseases.

The amount of fat in a 4 oz. of tilapia is only 1.3 grams. This already includes the omega 3 fatty acids found in it. These are considered beneficial fats too, said to help reduce the onset of inflammation. It also contains 0.6 grams of saturated fats for every 4 oz. of tilapia, considered “bad” cholesterol, which can contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries. It can be noted that this is lower compared to that of the healthy fats.

Tilapia contains an abundance of protein. This has nearly 23 grams of protein per 4 oz, which is equivalent to 45 percent of the recommended daily value based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Health sources say that the protein in tilapia is a ‘complete’ protein. It’s because this already contains the essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein that people ought to obtain from some of the foods that they eat. Why? People need protein to help maintain tissues. This also helps you feel fuller after eating a meal.

When it comes to minerals, you can count on tilapia to deliver. This will give you 11.3 percent of the recommended daily allowance of calcium per 4 oz. of serving and 10 percent RDA of potassium. People need calcium for bone development while potassium supports healthy heart function.

So is tilapia healthy or not? It certainly is!