Named after the Mediterranean Island of Sardinia in Italy, this delicious slender Cold-water fish is packed full of important nutrients such as the highest amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and calcium (because we eat the bones). One of the world's first canned foods, the sardine is rich in phosphorus, iron, potassium, vitamin B6, and niacin.
Omega-3 fatty acids, which aid the body in transferring oxygen, help with muscle elasticity and are a positive influence on the blood vessels and heart. They help protect against many diseases such as cancer, arthritis, high blood pressure, strokes and heart disease. They help suppress the activity of prostaglandins and leukotrienes which can activate various diseases, including blood clots and joint inflammation. Omega-3s also help protect the immune system. Not only is fish oil an anti-inflammatory agent, it also helps to protect the heart against arrhythmias (irregular heart beats). Arrhythmias are recognized as one of the most common triggers of heart attacks.
Being very small fish, we don’t have to worry about the heavy metals that often contaminate large fish
A dieter's dream!... Sardine cans come in small portions, about 4 oz and long shelf life. One can of skinless and boneless sardines in water has just 160 calories most of it from 24g Protein, 8g fat (just 2.5g Sat)… One can has more calcium than a cup of whole milk. Co-Enzyme Q10 helps promote brain activity and has been used by doctors to treat depression.
Canned sardines are among the easiest and cheapest sources of omega 3 and calcium. Sardines tend to be regarded as lowly, perhaps because they are so cheap. Canned sardines make a perfectly acceptable snack, first or main course.