Oil, spotted seal (Alaska Native)
Category: American Indian/Alaska Native Foods
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
894
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 (%) |
|---|---|
| Fat | 894 (100.0%) |
| Total | 894 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Fat | 99 (99.3%) |
| Water | 0.3 (0.3%) |
| Total | 100 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Benefits
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High in omega-3 fatty acids which are good for heart health and brain function
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Rich in vitamin A which is important for vision and immune function
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Contains vitamin D which is essential for bone and teeth health
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A good source of protein to support growth and repair of cells and tissues
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Provides energy and essential fatty acids to support overall health and well-being
Risks
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High in fat and calories. Spotted seal meat and blubber are very high in fat, which provides more than half the calories. Eating too much can contribute to weight gain and obesity
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High in cholesterol. The fat in spotted seal is high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can raise blood cholesterol levels and increase risk of heart disease if consumed in large amounts
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May contain toxins. Like other marine mammals, spotted seals can accumulate toxins like mercury and PCBs in their blubber. Eating too much could expose people to higher levels of these toxins
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Risk of foodborne illness. If not properly prepared and stored, spotted seal meat and blubber can potentially harbor bacteria that can cause foodborne illness like trichinosis
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Risk for vitamin/mineral deficiencies. A diet relying heavily on spotted seal as the main or only source of nutrition may lack variety and important vitamins and minerals found in other foods like produce, limiting overall nutrition
Additional Information
Oil, spotted seal (Alaska Native) is a unique food product that offers several nutritional benefits. This oil is derived from the blubber of the spotted seal, a marine mammal found in the Arctic and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The primary attribute of this oil is its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for overall health and well-being.
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that play a crucial role in various bodily functions. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, arthritis, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, omega-3s are important for brain health, as they are a major component of brain cell membranes and contribute to cognitive function and development.
Spotted seal oil is particularly rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), two types of omega-3 fatty acids that are highly bioavailable and easily absorbed by the body. These fatty acids have been associated with numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and triglyceride levels. They also support eye health and may help prevent age-related macular degeneration.
Moreover, spotted seal oil is a good source of fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamin A and vitamin D. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, supporting the immune system, and promoting cell growth and differentiation. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health by aiding in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. It also contributes to immune function and helps regulate mood.
While spotted seal oil offers several nutritional benefits, there are also some risks associated with its consumption. One primary concern is the potential presence of environmental contaminants, such as mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which can accumulate in the blubber of marine animals. These contaminants can have adverse effects on human health, particularly in high concentrations. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the oil is sourced from a reputable and trustworthy supplier that adheres to strict quality control measures.
Additionally, it is crucial to consider portion sizes and moderation when consuming spotted seal oil, as it is high in calories and fat. While the omega-3 fatty acids in the oil are beneficial, excessive intake can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of obesity-related conditions. It is recommended to incorporate spotted seal oil as part of a balanced diet and to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to determine the appropriate dosage and frequency of consumption.
In conclusion, spotted seal oil is a unique food product that offers several nutritional benefits, primarily due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA. These fatty acids provide various health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved cardiovascular health, and enhanced cognitive function. Spotted seal oil is also a source of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A and D. However, it is important to be mindful of potential environmental contaminants and to consume the oil in moderation to avoid excessive calorie and fat intake.