Health benefits of Sushi

Sushi is ideal for Healthy Diets

Sushi, popular for centuries in Japan, has become immensely popular in the Western world in recent years. You may soon find yourself invited to enjoy sushi with friends at a sushi bar or restaurant. Despite the common reaction of distaste at the prospect of eating raw fish, sushi is actually a simple and delicious food that can easily be enjoyed by adults, children, vegetarians.

Although sushi's history goes back to the 7th century, the popular form that is served in modern sushi bars came into popularity in 1820, Tokyo. Variations of the lengthy pickling process that was the original variety of sushi were made so that sushi could be enjoyed freshly made from a portable stall. This 'fast-food' approach has resulted in Sushi Bars gaining popularity all over the world and especially North America.

Sushi is a very healthy meal made mostly with rice, fish and vegetables. Sushi is always made with fresh ingredients. Not only for the safety of the eater but for the flavors. The delicate flavors of rice, vegetables and fish are enhanced with healthy soy sauce, ginger and wasabi.
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What are the health benefits of sushi?

  • The thin, toasted seaweed sheets, called Nori, used in rolled (maki) sushi are high in Vitamin A, B-complex, Niacin and Vitamin C. It is also good for digestion.
  • The rice used in making sushi is low in fat and sodium free while also being a complex carbohydrate which is needed as fuel for your body.
  • The various fish or meats used in sushi are excellent sources of protein and minerals.

Whether you're eating vegetarian sushi or it is mixed with fish, the fresh, uncooked vegetables provide the vitamins and other nutrients you look for in a healthy diet.
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Even the condiments served with sushi have health benefits.

  • Ginger, called 'gari', is often served alongside sushi and helps with digestion while also fighting bacteria. This is especially of interest to those concerned with the bacteria found in uncooked meat.
  • Wasabi, Japanese horseradish, can also kill bacteria found in raw fish and is often provided alongside sushi servings as a garnish or is included as in nigiri sushi. Mostly it is there for the flavor KICK!