Nutritional Significance of Fish in Combating Malnutrition

Abstract

The nutritional importance of fish in the context of combating malnutrition holds significant potential as a strategic avenue for addressing global health issues. Malnutrition, characterized by deficiencies in vital nutrients, remains a critical concern affecting diverse populations. Fish is a nutrient-dense food source and investigates its potential contributions to alleviating malnutrition. Wild-caught and aquaculture-derived fish are rich sources of essential nutrients crucial for human health. Abundant in high-quality proteins, fish provides ample amino acids necessary for growth, immune function, and cellular repair. Moreover, fish is renowned for its content of omega-3 fatty acids, along with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) also docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which confer cardiovascular advantages, neurological development, and anti-inflammatory properties. The importance of fish’s micronutrients, such as vitamins D and B12, iodine, selenium, and zinc. These micronutrients play integral roles in maintaining bone health, supporting cognitive functions, regulating thyroid activity, and enhancing immune responses. Notably, the bioavailability of these nutrients from fish exceeds that of many plant-based sources, highlighting its potential to address nutrient deficiencies effectively. The versatility of fish consumption across cultural diets and its potential to bridge nutritional gaps for vulnerable populations, particularly in regions with limited access to diverse nutrient sources. As malnutrition is influenced by various socio-economic, cultural, and environmental factors, adopting a holistic approach incorporating fish’s nutritional attributes could significantly address this challenge. This study aims to highlight the potential of fish as a strategic path for addressing global health issues.