Being both an avid fisherman and nutritionist has taught me quite a bit about fish over the years. Today Im going to share some of the benefits of incorporating more fish into your diet, and some things to watch out for. Fish is an excellent source of lean protein. Fish also contain polyunsaturated oils. These are good fats, because they actually lower blood cholesterol levels. These oils are liquid at both room and refrigerated temperatures. If&bsp; they&bsp; werent , cold water fishs blood wouldnt be able to flow. Fish are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids called eicosapentaenoic&bsp; acid(EPA) and docosahexaenoic&bsp; acid(DHA). These fatty acids may reduce inflammation, and decrease your risk for heart disease. In fact, the American Heart Association suggests we eat at least two servings of oily fish each week. There are times when fish isnt so good for you. Almost all fish are contaminated with trace amounts of mercury. Mercury is known as a neurotoxin, which means it attacks the central nervous system. Larger, and older fish usually contain the highest mercury levels. These&bsp; include, shark, sword fish, king mackerel, and tilefish.&bsp; Better choices would be shrimp, Pollock, salmon, catfish, and canned light tuna. In fact, canned white albacore tuna actually has higher mercury levels than the less expensive canned light tuna. Another problem is the way fish is sometimes prepared. Healthy fish can become unhealthy fast, if its deep fried in heavy oil. Also, under cooked fish can be a potential source of parasite infection.&bsp; When fish is properly cooked, the meat should show no signs of translucency. When it comes to purchasing fish, Im very particular where I buy it. I buy most of my seafood from a place called Carolina Fresh Fish and Seafood. Its located at 1460 Boiling&bsp; Springs Rd. in Spartanburg. Get to know the people you buy your seafood from. If the are experienced, they can educate you on how to choose, and cook your fish. Im often asked my opinion of fish oil supplements. Even though they dont contain the necessary proteins, they do contain the EPA and DHAI referred to earlier. In fact DHA supplementation may actually be most beneficial for babies. It turns out the developing brain accumulates large quantities of DHA during the third trimester of pregnancy through the first three months of infancy. Babies need adequate levels of DHA for cognitive development. Another benefit of fish oil supplements, is that they help thin the blood and allow saturated fat(bad fat), to pass through your arteries instead of getting stuck to them. Using these tips will hopefully help you to not only enjoy adding fish to your diet, but to make better choices as well.

David Crocker of Landrum has served as strength director of the Spartanburg Y.M.C.A., strength coach, S.C. state champion girls gymnastic team, USC-Spartanburg baseball team, and Converse college equestrian team. He taught four semesters at USC-Union. David is also a regular guest of the Pam Stone Show. David also served as lead trainer to L.H.Fields Modeling Agency.