Seafood, nutrition and human health: A synopsis of the nutritional benefits of consuming seafood

Seafood as a whole food is highly nutritious. Benefits to human health associated with the consumption of seafood are noted for multiple bodily organs and physiological functions. Seafood compares favourably with other protein sources as it offers superior macronutrients in the ideal form of lean proteins combined with healthy omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFAs),and a wide array of highly bioavailable micronutrients.This exposition investigates the role of key nutrients present in seafood on human health. Particular focus is placed on marine sourced omega 3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins A, B12, D and E, iodine, selenium, calcium, zinc and iron

Consumption of fish and Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) has been described as 'one of the most disabling and burdensome health conditions worldwide' and is responsible for approximately 70% of dementia in the elderly. Based on the current prevalence of AD, an aging world population and the associated projected health care requirements, it is estimated that by 2050, the prevalence of AD will reach 104 million with around 43% requiring ongoing health care. If the onset of AD can be reduced by as little as one year, the prevalence could be reduced by 10%. There is substantial commonality in research findings to date around the positive influence of seafood consumption in reducing the risk of dementia and AD. Emerging concern about the sustainability of global fisheries supports the recommendation of selective consumption of sustainable wild caught and increased emphasis on production of farmed fish supplies to meet consumption needs

Seafood provides significant health benefits for men

Evidence supports the regular consumption of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids found (Omega 3s) with positive effects to men?s health. The best source of these essential fatty acids are seafood, particularly oily fish. This article summarises evidence pertaining to the benefits associated with regular dietary intake of fish on men?s health.Methods: An extensive review of international academic libraries, databases and published literature was conducted. Quality assessment ratings were applied and thematic classifications based on major health issues relevant to men constructed.Results: A total of 168 articles from peer reviewed journals were identified with 60 studies providing moderate to high level evidence of an association between the consumption of Omega 3s and health benefit for men. The majority of the studies showed a positive link between the intake of Omega 3s and the prevention and management of chronic disease in men. Evidence also shows a reduced risk of prostate cancer and lower lung cancer mortality in men who consume a high seafood diets. Conclusion: There is conclusive evidence of an association between the dietary intake of Omega 3s and health benefits for men. However, men are less likely to consume fish when compared to red or white meats. Health promotion interventions should consider: the attitudes of men toward food and the impact of these attitudes on food choices; the association between seafood and other protein sources within the male psyche; and the role that particular foods play for males in social situations

Identifying the health and well-being benefits of recreational fishing.

In summary, this study found that considerable health and well-being benefits can be gained through involvement in recreational fishing. Encouraging young children, youth, adults and families to fish offers a cost effective and healthful outdoor recreational activity that can be enjoyed throughout life. Benefits were evident for individuals and groups. Recreational fishing was also noted to provide significant benefits to children and youth with behavioural and mental health issues. Finally, educational strategies that focus on how to minimise the environmental impacts of recreational fishing can ensure today’s and tomorrow’s recreational fishers are aware of sustainable fishing practices

Enhancing activity, nutrition and mental health in overweight adolescents Stage 1 - Formative Research

This report discusses Stage 1 of the 'Curtin Activity, Food and Attitudes Program' (CAFAP). As a part of this research program, a tertiary hospital adolescent obesity intervention was adapted and piloted it in a community setting with clinically obese adolescents and their families. The first stage of the project refined the program and its evaluation framework based on individual, family and community enablers and barriers. This report will present the outcomes of Stage 1. It will examine the experiences of participants and discuss the understanding gained of what would encourage potential participants to become involved in CAFAP if it was available to them in their community

Understanding Seafood Consumption and Healthy Living Practices Report 2010

This report documents the findings of a small cross-sectional survey conducted from November 6 - 9th 2010. The survey was administered to 48 people via random interception at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Respondents were asked to complete demographic information, consumption and perception of seafood to other proteins (chicken, pork, lamb and beef), what types of seafood consumed in the past week and the preparation methods used. Respondents were also asked whether they participated in physical activities and what barriers they had to recreational fishing. Although the sample size was small, this study provided validation to the survey instrument used. Reliability will now be assessed and the survey modified accordingly for use in a larger study to be conducted through CESSH. The study has also provided some direction for further work within a community based model of behaviour change communication

Community intervention to increase seafood consumption (CIISC)

In summary, this report describes a whole of community intervention aimed at increasing consumption of seafood. The health benefits of seafood were reviewed and a suit of communication materials developed including: primary and secondary education models. vocational eductaion materials, resources for general practitioners and point of sale materials. Evaluation of project outcomes revealed an increase in seafood consumption during and one month after the intervention period

Associations between endogenous sex hormone levels and mammographic and bone densities in premenopausal women

PURPOSE: Mammographic breast and bone mineral densities (BMD) have been associated with luteal phase hormone concentrations in premenopausal women. We assessed the associations of breast and bone densities with follicular phase hormones and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) in premenopausal women given that follicular phase hormones have been shown to be positively associated with premenopausal breast cancer risk. METHODS: One hundred and ninety two 40-45 year old women provided a spot urine and/or blood sample during the follicular phase. Hormone and SHBG concentrations and bone density were measured and routine mammograms were accessed and digitized to obtain breast density measures. Regression models were fit to assess the associations between hormones and SHBG and breast and bone densities. RESULTS: Positive associations were observed between percent breast density and SHBG (p trend = 0.02), as well as estradiol (p trend = 0.08), after controlling for body mass index (BMI), number of pregnancies, and breast feeding history. In addition, a statistically significant inverse association was observed between total testosterone and head BMD (p trend = 0.01), after controlling for BMI. CONCLUSIONS: Associations were observed between breast and bone densities and serum hormone concentrations during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle

The Metabochip, a Custom Genotyping Array for Genetic Studies of Metabolic, Cardiovascular, and Anthropometric Traits

PMCID: PMC3410907This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited