Mackerel species are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as well as high levels of vitamin B12 (nearly 700% of your daily requirement). [1] They contain minerals like selenium, copper, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron. There are also smaller amounts of vitamin A, potassium, zinc and sodium. Along with 230 calories per filet – an average of 100 grams – there are also 21 grams of protein, representing roughly 40% of your daily required intake.
Due to this impressive nutrient profile and the different ways to prepare mackerel, it remains one of the most popular and readily consumed fish in the world.
With ample amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and selenium, mackerel fish can take care of all your skin care needs. These substances act as antioxidants within the body, helping reduce oxidative stress and the effects of free radicals, which are the natural byproducts of cellular metabolism. [2]They can also help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots and relieve certain inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
There are many nutrients that are critical to hair care such as protein, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which are found in mackerel fish. A regular dose of these nutrients in your diet will help improve the luster and look of your hair, while also strengthening the hair strands and reducing the effects of scalp conditions, such as dandruff. [3]
Despite having a low level of vitamin C, mackerel fish are still praised for their effects on the immune system. Coenzyme Q10 is one of the unique elements in mackerel fish that is closely associated with preventing infections and strengthening the body’s defense against oxidative stress. [4] Omega-3 fatty acids are also known to reduce inflammation, which can put unnecessary strain on the immune system.
With an impressive level of omega-3 fatty acids, mackerel fish is known to improve cholesterol balance in the body by lowering LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol levels. This will reduce the amount of cholesterol that is oxidized and deposited in the arteries as plaque, so this fish is known to lower your risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, and coronary heart diseases. [5]
The antioxidant effects of mackerel fish are well-studied, primarily due to the high level of selenium, which is more than 80% of your daily requirement per serving. Selenium functions as an antioxidant in the body, helping prevent cellular mutation and chronic disease by neutralizing free radicals before they can damage tissues, cells, and organs. [6]