A humble tin of fish could be the secret to maintaining a healthy blood pressure and reducing inflammation, according to health experts. The Fast 800, a lifestyle plan created by the late Dr Michael Mosley, has highlighted tinned tuna as an affordable option for a nutritious boost.
Available for as little as 69p at Asda, this store cupboard essential is not only budget-friendly but also versatile, perfect for adding to pasta, topping jacket potatoes, or tossing into a salad for a protein-rich meal.
“The Fast 800” praised the benefits of tinned tuna on Instagram, saying: “A quick and convenient protein boost, tinned tuna is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Olives and Feta add the extra yum to this quick and delicious lunch option.
“At only 366 calories this salad has a whopping 30g of protein, helping you to feel fuller for longer. Tip: Aim for sustainably caught tuna and look for tuna in extra virgin olive oil.”
Health food specialists Holland and Barrett have also confirmed the advantages of including tuna in your diet, noting: “Tuna is an excellent protein source. Tuna is also very low in calories, making it an ideal food for those looking to maintain a healthy weight while keeping up their energy levels.”
“Tuna is especially abundant in omega 3 fatty acids. They’re brilliant for the body and are thought to help lower cholesterol, boost brain function and improve eye health. It’s also an excellent source of vitamin B12. Tuna is rich in vitamin B12, a form of B vitamin responsible for helping the body form new red blood cells,” reports Gloucestershire Live.
“The benefits of fresh and canned tuna are typically the same. However, fresh tuna is thought to contain slightly more protein. Nevertheless, tinned tuna is more affordable and lasts much longer.”
If you can stretch to buying tinned tuna in olive oil, that can make it even healthier. Harvard Health Publishing says: “Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids, containing about 75% by volume. When substituted for saturated fat, monounsaturated fats help lower your ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol.
“Tuna is an excellent protein source. Tuna is also very low in calories, making it an ideal food for those looking to maintain a healthy weight while keeping up their energy levels.”
The health benefits of olive oil have been attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, observational studies have shown a link between lower risks of cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and even dementia in people who consume higher amounts of olive oil than those who use little or none.
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