We hear much these days about the benefits of oily fish and how it can contribute to a healthy diet. While we are eating more fish than ever before and we are trying more varieties of fish too, it’s good to know that we can get plenty of sustainably farmed fish from our local fishmonger and supermarket. There is one class of fish that is having a resurgence and that is good old British trout. Maybe that’s not surprising when you consider it’s delicious and easy to cook, it’s highly sustainable and one of the most nutrient-dense fish available.
Trout falls within the oily fish family and is rich in Omega 3 so feeds the brain, reduces risks of stroke and heart attack, and helps build a stronger immune system. Trout is low in saturated fat and high in good quality protein and is great for an ageing population where getting enough protein in the diet is important to maintain muscle strength. Trout also contains high levels of Vitamin D, and we should never underestimate the importance of keeping our levels up. Vitamin D is key for immune health and for bone density. And while the sun is our biggest source of this vital nutrient when it’s scarce in the winter months it’s good to know we can enjoy a tasty fillet of trout and get a shot of Vitamin D at the same time.
Vitamin B12 is important in preventing anaemia and for the correct functioning of nerves so choosing delicious foods such as trout that will boost your levels makes good sense. Trout also contains selenium which protects against cell damage, and it contains iodine which is essential for healthy growth and particularly important in pregnancy. And, if that’s not enough, for those who participate in sports having a diet rich in trout will give you a powerful antioxidant, Astaxanthin, a precursor to Vitamin A which can help with muscle recovery, stress, and lack of sleep.
To enjoy the health-giving benefits of British trout and to savour its delicate taste why not give this mouth-watering recipe a try: Steamed trout with ginger and spring onions.
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