There are important vitamins and minerals in anchovies, ones that contribute to maintaining a healthy heart and ideal levels of cholesterol, and also contribute to the natural detoxification processes of our bodies. They help improve the health of skin, and strengthen bones and teeth.
Anchovies are small, saltwater fish. There are over a 100 known species of them. They usually swim in large schools, leading to relatively easy fishing. One of the most popular areas for their fishing is the Mediterranean Sea, that’s why these tiny fish became an important part of European, Middle-Eastern and North-African cuisines alike.
Although these little fish are pretty controversial (since at least as many people despise them, as there are fans) it’s worth giving them a shot, because they have plenty of benefitial properties to our health. If you don’t like eating them as is, try putting them in a sandwich, or on salads, or even a pizza!
The meat of anchovies is rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals alike. Furthermore, it contains calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium and zinc, among other things. It’s a great source of vitamins as well: it contains vitamins C, B6, B12, A, E, and K.
Let’s see what benefits eating anchovies has!
1.They contribute to keeping the heart healthy
Anchovies contain a large amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids, that can reduce ’bad cholesterol’ (LDL cholesterol) levels in the blood. Omega-3 fatty acids help keep the vascular system healthy.
2. They promote cell reproduction
It has been known for a good while now, how anchovies beneficial effect on cell reproduction contributes to the regeneration of damaged connective tissue. They can greatly impulse our bodies ’self-healing’ functions!
3. Anchovies can even improve your skin!
Essential fatty acids (which are also known as ’good cholesterol’, or HDL cholesterol), like Omega-3, can be found in anchovies in great amounts. But they also contain vitamin E, and some important minerals, like selenium. These nutrients all contribute to maintaining healthy skin: facial skin remains taut, signs of aging start showing later, and they also prevent acne from developing. Finally, vitamin E is paramount to protection against harmful solar radiation.
4. They improve the health of bones
The vitamins and minerals found in anchovies have countless health benefits, one of which is strengthening bones. Calcium and vitamin A can positively influence the growth of bones, for example. Because of this, they are also recommended to children. These same nutrients also strenghten teeth, and because of this, these substances are also recommended to the elderly.
5. Want to lose some weight? Anchovies are just right for you!
Anchovies contain a high amount of proteins, yet a low amount of calories, which makes them ideal for those who aim to lose some weight. You’ll get a sense of fullness sooner from foods high in proteins, meaning that eating less of them will suffice.
6. You don’t need to be concerned about mercury!
If you’re someone who eats loads of sea-fish, you’d best check the amount of toxins that can be found in them… Luckily smaller fish that have shorter lifespans have a significantly lower amount of toxins in their bodies, so you may eat those without thinking about it twice! Similar to sardines, anchovies are also on the bottom of the foodchain, meaning that they have lower mercury levels.
7. They contribute to the health of the eyes
Like we have already stated above, anchovies are extremely rich in vitamin A, which helps maintain the health of the eyes. With a proper, regular intake of vitamin A, eye diseases (e. g. cataracts) can be prevented.
We hope to have made you excited about anchovies! If you hadn’t tried them yet, or were put off by them, please do give them a chance! 😊 But be careful: an oily can of anchovies can be very high in sodium, so if you happened to be on a low-sodium diet, make sure to enjoy them with restraint, or simply go for fresh anchovies instead!
Choose from our premium anchovies:
