Fish, the protagonist of the Lenten menu

Fish and shellfish are products which offer great health benefits due to their high protein content, as well as minerals, iron, vitamins, zinc and fatty acids such as Omega 3. In addition, they help prevent anemia and malnutrition.

According to the report from Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO), Fish has proven health benefits, ranging from reducing the risk of cardiac death to promoting good neural development in infants and young children when eaten by the mother.

It is interesting that, despite its important nutritional contributions, fish a food that is consumed more during Lent. It is one of the most deeply rooted traditions among the Catholic faithful. At this time, people refrain from eating meat during Maundy Wednesday, Fridays of Lent, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Saturday holy. However, this is where fish becomes the protagonist of the menus of many families almost all over the world.

And that’s it, during Lent calls for reflection, penance, generosity towards others, to fast and deprive themselves of privileges in order to show humility and composure.

Eating red meat is considered one of those privileges, so devotees avoid it Do it during Lent.

Now, why is it permissible to eat fish? Fish meat is mentioned several times in Scripture, which usually depicts feeding and life. Several passages mention fishermen, although the most famous is the one that tells of the miracle he performed Jesus multiplies the fish to feed the hungry multitude.

On this topic, Pope Francis said: “Fasting is not changing food or beautifying fish, that would be a continuation of the carnival.” Our post must be true. And if they cannot fast completely (without consuming food), the kind that makes us feel hungry to the bone, at least we must fast modestly, but truly.”‘

? the smell of the sea

? Your eyes should be moist and shiny.

? The scales should not come off easily

? Glowing, dewy skin? The meat must be firm and resistant to finger pressure.

? The abdomen must not be bulging

? The gills are light red to dark red.

for his part, Monsignor José Domingo Ulloa, Archbishop of Panama, He explains that it is not just about stopping eating meat, but about abstaining from other details that do not allow one to live in freedom.

“It goes in the style of abstinence to eat something I like to give to the poor. Nothing has to change if I don’t eat meat and indulge in seafood extravagance,” he said.

Eat fish all year round!

Nutritionists believe that fish and shellfish They are one of the most complete foods, because their nutrients are necessary at any stage of life.

Various studies confirm that in children fish helps its proper development and growth, In addition to strengthening your immune system.

In the case of adults, helps prevent and lower high cholesterolthe coronary diseases and promotes tissue regeneration and wound healing.

Another detail is that science supports the popular opinion that fish contributes to the development of intelligence, stimulates concentration and memory. A study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania (United States) found a link between fish consumption, better sleep and higher IQ levels in boys aged 9 to 11 years. Those who often ate fish had excellent results unlike those who did so very rarely.

American Heart Association also reiterated that fish is rich in fatty acids such as omega-3, which is why it has anti-inflammatory action which help minimize the narrowing of the arteries and therefore reduce the possibility of heart problems.

Its importance in the diet is such that it was concluded that people who eat fish at least twice a week have a lower risk of heart attack, accidents cerebrovascular disease (CVA) and heart failure.