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The Secrets of Salmon

My love of Salmon has been the fuel of family jokes for a long time.  I’ve been accused of having the fishing skills of a Bear and it’s been suggested that I’m just savage enough to dive in and come up with a Salmon in my mouth! In the Mi’kmaq culture we respect the Bear for its mastery over the natural medicines and its great love for Salmon speaks to that inherent wisdom. The Bear seeks this rich food source to restore and preserve its body for a long winter of hibernation and significant physical depletion.

Significant attention has been given to the benefits of Salmon as it is the richest source of marine-derived Omega-3 and has potent anti-inflammatory abilities. It is well known for being beneficial for anti-aging, brain function, prevention of menopausal symptoms, cancer and heart disease, among other things. In my home, any Salmon dish is always a favorite as it’s one of Newfoundland’s natural blessings and a long time Mi’kmaq secret to traditional health.

~ Chief Liz LaSaga

Benefits of Salmon

• A 4 oz serving of wild salmon provides a full day’s requirement of vitamin D which is necessary for natural light/sun deficiency and mood elevation. It also improves muscle strength and reduces the risk of bone fracture;
• A serving also provides the body’s daily requirement of B12 which is important for maintaining a healthy nervous system and DNA production;
• Niacin, which is needed in the formation of red blood cells, some hormones and the production of hydrochloric acid, is also in abundance. Niacin supports the function of central nervous system and it great for health of the skin. It maintains normal digestive tract function and regulates cholesterol levels. It is used in supporting higher brain function and cognition, thus moods and psychological function;
• A serving of Salmon also provides the daily requirement of Selenium which can reduce the risk of cancer in several organs and prevent of a number of degenerative diseases including cancer, inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular disease, neurological diseases, aging, and infections. Selenium is also a known for its antioxidant properties which combat aging;
• A serving of Salmon is also an excellent source of B6 and Magnesium. Vitamin B is good for energy production, a healthy nervous system, good digestion, healthy skin, hair and nails. Magnesium helps keep the heart healthy, strengthens bones and helps the body absorb other important minerals such as calcium and potassium;
• Salmon is ranks highest in protein and the “good fat,” (Omega-3s) which reduces inflammation in our bodies. Reducing inflammation is the secret to preventing many health problems like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, cancer and arthritis. Omega -3 fats also can help prevent cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer’s and other age-related cognitive-decline problems. Sufficient levels of Omega-3s also assist with depression and other mood disorders.
• Finally, Salmon has one of the highest natural concentration levels of Resveratrol available. In Dr. Perricone’s book, “The Wrinkle Cure,” and in many of his other findings, he identifies Salmon as one of the premier Super Foods of the world. For a list of Super Foods go to: http://www.benefits-of-resveratrol.com/10-super-foods.html.

Photo by footosvanrobin