Many types of seafood are filled with protein and vitamins. Tilapia is one of the most popular types of fish to eat because it is affordable. According to the National Institute of Fisheries, Tilapia is the 4th most consumed fish in the United States. However, many health experts agree that you should not eat tilapia.
Reasons Why Tilapia is Bad for You…
1.) Tilapia is Farmed Raised
Most tilapia comes from the farm. Tilapia are one of the hardiest types of fish. They can eat almost anything. This saves farmers money because they do not have to keep tilapia on a strict diet. Farmers feed tilapia things like pig and chicken poop.
Some of the things that are done to tilapia on a farm can make one’s stomach churn. Not only are the fish fed a poor diet, but they may also live in crowded conditions. Additionally, tilapia are often genetically-modified and fed antibiotics.
2.) Tilapia Lacks Essential Nutrients
Tilapia has less omega 3 fatty acids than most other types of fish. Omega 3 fatty acids are an important nutrient because they can help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease. Tilapia also has a lot of omega 6 fatty acids. These fatty acids are not good for you because they can promote inflammation.
3.) Tilapia Can Increase the Risk of Cancer
Because tilapia are often farmed, they may have up to 10 times more carcinogens than other types of fish. This is directly linked to what the farmers feed tilapia. Dioxin is one of the dangerous compounds found in tilapia. It takes the body several years to flush out this toxin. This means that dioxin has a long time to do damage to your body.
4.) Tilapia Can Increase Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
Arachidonic acid is one of the omega 6 fatty acids in tilapia. This comoound has been shown to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. You can reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease by eating mackerel, sardines and halibut. However, tilapia can increase the risk of this disease.
Healthier Alternatives to Eating Tilapia
It is always best to eat wild-caught fish. You should also look for foods that have been certified by the Marine Stewardship Council. If you choose to buy farmed fish, then you should look for fish that are free of hormones, antibiotics and pesticides.
You should also choose fish that have been fed a natural diet. US Haddock is a great choice. It is high in protein and iron but low in saturated fat. California Halibut, Pacific Halibut and Alaska Cod are some of the other great options that you have. They are also a great source of protein and iron.
Is Tilapia Good For You? 3 Fish to Eat instead of Tilapia
If you want to know more about how dangerous tilapia is, then this video provides great information.
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