Haddock fish (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) also known as seed haddock, offshore hake and Finnan haddock is the salt water fish belonging to the Gadidae family. They are mostly found in North Atlantic Ocean on the depth of 40-33 m (131-436 ft). It also survives in the temperature between 36 to 50 °F (2-10°C). Young haddock lives in shallow water. It range from 38-69 cm long and weighs about 0.9-1.8 kg. The body color is dark gray with silvery belly and white flesh. They are carnivore and feed on mollusks, sea urchins, sea stars, fish eggs, worms, shellfish and crabs. Spiny dogfish, cod, skate, monkfish, sea raven, halibut and seals are natural enemies. They have the lifespan of 10 years.
Nutritional value
One fillet of Haddock fish grants minerals such as 21 mg of calcium, 0.32 mg of iron, 39 mg of magnesium, 417 mg of phosphorus, 526 mg of potassium, 392 mg of sodium, 0.6 mg of zinc, 0.039 mg of copper, 0.019 mg of manganese and 47.5 µg of selenium. It offers 3.19 µg of Vitamin B12, 1.6 g of isoleucine, 3.189 g of lysine, 0.39 g of tryptophan, 1.522 g of threonine, 47.5 µg of selenium, 1.79 g of valine, 1.023 g of histidine, 2.823 g of leucine, 29.98 g of protein, 417 mg of phosphorus, 6.178 mg of niacin, 0.491 mg of pyridoxine, 392 mg of sodium, 119.4 mg of choline, 0.741 mg of Vitamin B5 and 526 mg of potassium.
Health benefits of Haddock fish
Haddock has high content of protein and low amount of fat. It is loaded with Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids which provide various benefits. It slows down the formation of cancer as well as tumors. It also lowers the pain caused due to rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, it triggers the fetus development in the pregnant women. It lowers the LDL cholesterol and the chances of heart ailments. Haddock is loaded with Vitamins which assist in the normal functions. Vitamin helps to prevent the eye ailments. Calcium, magnesium and phosphorus help to maintain the teeth and bone health. Additionally magnesium has positive impact for regulating blood pressure. Phosphorus is essential for the function of kidneys.
Maintenance of cells
Vitamin is required for various cells in the body. Vitamin B12 is essential for the maintenance, repair and formation of red blood cells. It also maintains the nerve health in the body. (1)
Strengthen immunity
Protein is integral for the stronger immunity. The self defense mechanism prevents diseases and infections due to the presence of antibodies. It eliminates or deactivates the foreign elements such as antigens from the body. (2)
Balance fluid
It balances the fluid in the body. The adequate amount of protein in a cells balance the water content which is present in it. The drops in protein level imbalances fluid that results in acidity deviation. An imbalance of fluid in blood leads to flow of fluid in blood vessels. The balance of fluid assists the functions of nerve and muscle cells. (3)
Assist digestion
Phosphorus is vital for the effective digestion. It promotes the digestion of niacin and riboflavin which helps to metabolize energy to emotional and neurological response systems. Phosphorus is associated with diarrhea, constipation, indigestion and bowel movements. It eliminates toxins from the body as well. (4)
Function of brain
Phosphorus is vital for the brain cells to perform various functions. The adequate amount of phosphorus ensures cognitive development and growth as well as brain function. The study shows that deficiency of phosphorus is associated to lower the chances of cognitive malfunction or conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. (5)
Lowers bad cholesterol
The high intake of niacin lowers the level of LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. This helps to prevent the artery wall thickening as well as the conditions such as atherosclerosis. (6)
Skin conditions
Vitamin B6 is essential for the maintenance of skin health and treats the skin conditions such as dandruff, eczema, acne, dandruff, dry skin and hair loss. It also treats ailments such as psoriasis and melanoma. (7)
Reduce stress
Pantothenic acid lowers stress and mental problems such as depression and anxiety that promotes the mind fitness. It is essential for the regulation of hormones that is the cause for mental conditions. (8)
Sugar level
The low presence of potassium leads to the drop in the blood sugar which could cause headache, sweating, trembling, weakness and nervousness. The intake of sodium and potassium chloride helps to provide relief from these conditions. The normal level of potassium in diabetic patients lowers the risk of unstable plunges and spikes in glucose as well as level of insulin by maintaining the level of sugar in the body. (9)
Relax muscles
Potassium is vital for the contraction of muscles. The adequate amount of potassium is essential for the relaxation and contraction of muscles. It maintains the function of nerves and optimal muscles. (10)
Precautions
Due to the mercury content in fish, it should be consumed in limited amounts.
