We need to eat more fish

Fish is off the menu for 70 per cent of Brits, according to a new survey by Efalex, the Omega 3 and 6 fish oil supplement.

The survey of over 3,000 people, revealed that 90 per cent of the nation consider fish to be an important part of their diet, but only 30 per cent actually eat the government recommended intake of two portions a week, one of those being of oily fish.

Despite the government’s campaigns to communicate the health benefits of fish to consumers, the survey revealed that surprisingly almost 60 per cent of the population aren’t aware of the amount of fish their family should be eating.

And the survey suggested that the population’s culinary skills may be partly to blame. People are unsure how to prepare fish dishes from scratch and over 40 per cent of people don’t know how to prepare fish or seafood, which is affecting their intake. Almost half of those questioned said that they would eat more fish if they knew how to cook it.

Not all fish has the same benefits for our health, as nutritionist Fiona Hunter explains: “Oily fish is a rich source of omega-3, a family of essential fatty acids, which provide the nutrients required for good health. Because our brains comprise approximately 60 per cent fat, they need a good supply of this vital nutrient for healthy brain function, co-ordination, learning ability and concentration. Omega-3 has also been shown to benefit heart health and joint health.”

A third of those taking the survey thought cod was an oil fish (it is not). Fiona Hunter comments: “It is concerning that four in five people don’t eat enough oily fish as adequate intake of Omega-3 fatty acids is vital.”

She adds: “Taking a supplement is a convenient way to boost intake and ensure you get the necessary nutrients needed for good health.”

If you would rather get your omega 3 and 6 intake from fish, try this quick and easy recipe (right) as a healthy way of boosting your heart (and brain) health.

(Back to healthy eating)