Tilapia fish is a delicious and cheap source of protein and is the second most consumed fish species in the world. It was discovered in Africa and the Middle East. It has gained popularity globally as scientists have found it to have many health benefits. Tilapia fish is also known as freshwater sea bream and aquatic chicken. It is a fish species that grows fast and can adapt to all kinds of harsh conditions. It does not require culture conditions. Consumers should be careful as there are concerns about fatty acid content and heavy metals. Most people are unaware of these dangers. In this article, we will give you information about tilapia fish.
What is Tilapia Fish?
Tilapia fish is a freshwater fish belonging to the cichlid family and grows in warm water ponds, rivers, lakes and shallow streams. Tilapia, a tropical African fish, came to our country by mistake and is found in Köyceğiz Lake. Similar to the sunbath fish, tilapia has lateral stripes and a long dorsal fin. There are four commercial tilapia species produced in the world:
Mozambique tilapia
Blue tilapia
Red tilapia
Nile tilapia
Nile tilapia was considered a symbol of rebirth in ancient Egyptian culture. Nowadays, they are grown on farms and hybrid fish are produced to meet increasing market demands. In addition, some farms even inject growth hormones that may be harmful to human health.
Nutritional Values of Tilapia Fish
Tilapia fish is loaded with protein and low in calories. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Health Benefits of Tilapia Fish
Tilapia fish is good for bone health. It contains calcium and phosphorus minerals necessary for bone development. Recent scientific studies have shown that tilapia fish collagen type 1 may aid bone cell regeneration in regenerative medicine. It is also thought that it can be used as a scaffold biomaterial in the field of dental treatment.
Tilapia, like some fish species, contains selenium and antioxidants that fight against cancer, are good for heart health and treat some cardiological diseases. Selenium reduces free radicals and protects the person against oxidative stress. It prevents healthy cells from turning into cancerous cells. In addition, according to research conducted by scientists, hepcidin 1-5, an antimicrobial peptide, can be used as a new alternative treatment for cancer since it has an anti-inflammatory structure.
Since tilapia fish contains plenty of omega-3, it can improve brain functions. It also contains selenium, which protects against diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and epilepsy. Tilapia increases oxygen flow in the brain and helps the body's fluid balance.
It is fed with chemicals that provide all these benefits and omega-3 and omega-6 cultured fish with an unbalanced fatty acid ratio are natural tilapia fish, not tilapia. Wild tilapia has more omega-3 fatty acids than cultured fish. Omega-3 lowers high blood pressure and helps prevent heart attack, stroke and atherosclerosis.
Tilapia fish contains antioxidants and vitamin E that are good for skin health. It gives elasticity and shine to the skin. It also protects the skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. It reduces inflammation and stress in the body.
Tilapia helps to lose weight in a healthy way with an appropriate diet and exercise program, thanks to its high protein and low calorie content.
Tilapia contains the mineral selenium, which regulates and improves the hormonal functions of the thyroid gland. Regular functioning of the thyroid gland strengthens the metabolism and prevents excessive weight gain or thyroid disorders.
Scientific studies have shown that the marine collagens of the Nile tilapia are effective in closing wounds.
Is Consuming Tilapia Fish Risky?
Tilapia fish caught in the wild are not harmful and risky. However, fish obtained from tilapia farms have many risks. People who consume it should be aware of these risks and be conscious and careful when buying tilapia. Risks to be aware of in tilapia fish are as follows:
Arsenic poisoning: Arsenic is a substance that causes cancer. Farmed tilapia are more likely to suffer from arsenic poisoning.
Mercury poisoning: Mercury poisoning is generally encountered in tilapia and some fish species. Scientists have found that both freshwater and cultured tilapia can bioaccumulate mercury. However, freshwater tilapia poses about 5% less risk than farmed ones.
Imbalanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 Ratio: The ideal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fats found in many fish is 1:1. However, in farmed tilapia the ratio may be 2:1 or 4:1. This condition can cause many diseases, including hypertension and heart diseases.
Cancer risk: Farmed fish can be exposed to many heavy metals, and consuming too much of these fish can cause DNA mutations and cancer.
Tilapia fish is a great source of protein, healthy fats and antioxidants. However, it is necessary to pay attention to where it is obtained from. It should be purchased locally or from a reliable fishmonger. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before consuming tilapia.
