Fish, salmon, red, (sockeye), smoked (Alaska Native)
Category: American Indian/Alaska Native Foods State: Canned
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
206
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
---|---|
Protein | 141 (68.3%) |
Fat | 65 (31.7%) |
Total | 206 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Composition
Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
---|---|
Water | 57 (56.5%) |
Protein | 35 (35.2%) |
Fat | 7.3 (7.3%) |
Ash | 2.8 (2.8%) |
Total | 100 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Benefits
-
High in omega-3 fatty acids which are good for heart health and may help reduce inflammation
-
Rich source of protein to support muscle growth and maintenance
-
Contains selenium which is an antioxidant and plays a role in thyroid function
-
A good source of vitamin D which is important for bone and immune health
-
Contains B vitamins like niacin which help convert food into energy
Risks
-
High in sodium due to processing and smoking. Canned smoked salmon contains around 500-700mg of sodium per 3oz serving
-
May contain environmental pollutants like mercury depending on the type of fish. Sockeye salmon is low in mercury
-
High in calories and fat. A 3oz serving contains around 110 calories and 7g of fat
-
May lack variety of nutrients found in fresh salmon due to processing and smoking
-
Contains preservatives like sodium nitrite which have been linked to increased cancer risk when eaten in large amounts regularly
Additional Information
Fish, specifically red salmon, canned and smoked, offers a plethora of nutritional benefits while also carrying certain risks. Let's delve into its primary attributes and secondary attributes to understand its overall nutritional profile.
First and foremost, red salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues, as well as the production of enzymes and hormones. Consuming red salmon can help meet the recommended daily protein intake, particularly for individuals following a pescatarian or seafood-rich diet.
Additionally, red salmon is renowned for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are crucial for heart health, as they help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids also play a vital role in brain development and function, making red salmon an excellent choice for cognitive health.
Moreover, red salmon is a rich source of vitamin D. This vitamin is essential for calcium absorption, promoting bone health and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. Adequate vitamin D intake is also associated with a reduced risk of certain cancers, autoimmune diseases, and mood disorders such as depression.
Red salmon is also packed with several essential minerals, including potassium, selenium, and phosphorus. Potassium plays a vital role in maintaining proper heart and muscle function, while selenium acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage. Phosphorus is crucial for bone health and energy production, making red salmon a valuable source of these minerals.
While red salmon offers numerous nutritional benefits, it is important to consider potential risks associated with canned and smoked varieties. Canned salmon may contain added sodium, which can be a concern for individuals with high blood pressure or sodium-sensitive conditions. Opting for low-sodium or no-salt-added canned red salmon can help mitigate this risk.
Smoked salmon, including the Alaska Native variety, may contain higher levels of sodium and potentially harmful compounds like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs). These compounds are formed during the smoking process and are known to have carcinogenic properties. Therefore, it is advisable to consume smoked salmon in moderation and choose varieties that are minimally processed and prepared with natural smoking methods.
In conclusion, red salmon, specifically the canned and smoked varieties, offers numerous nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and essential minerals. However, individuals should be cautious of potential risks associated with added sodium and harmful compounds found in smoked salmon. Incorporating red salmon into a balanced diet can contribute to overall health and well-being, but it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized dietary recommendations.