From heart health to brain development, the ocean’s goodies prove even more powerful than initially thought.

We’ve long been told that eating seafood is great for our brain, body and guts – but just how great is it?

It can be challenging for the seafood community, practitioners and the general community to find the most current science relating to the health benefits of eating seafood.

To address this matter, a new report ‘The Health Benefits of Eating Seafood - Evidence Based Science’, is now freely available as an online resource. The new report was led by FRDC on behalf of the International Coalition of Fisheries Associations (ICFA) and chaired by Fiona MacMillan at New Zealand Seafood.

After reviewing over a decade’s worth of more than ten thousand relevant and high-quality scientific studies, authors Dr Wendy Hunt and Professor Alexandra McManus concluded that evidence clearly supports the consumption of at least two serves of seafood per week (a serve equals 100-150 grams) as part of a healthy diet.

“No matter how young or old, seafood offers health benefits at every stage of life,” states co-author Wendy Hunt.

For expectant mothers, the rewards are even more compelling. Eating seafood during pregnancy was shown to reduce the risk of preeclampsia, postpartum depression, and preterm birth, while boosting cognitive development, immunity, and even sleep quality in infants. Children born to mothers who consumed adequate seafood had lower risks of asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis.

“At least one of these portions should be omega-3 fatty acids, and a variety of seafood should be consumed to gain optimal health benefits,” concludes co-author Alexandra McManus.

Additional findings suggest that seafood can aid in diabetes prevention, bone health, and even athletic performance.

Mental health benefits were also notable, with studies indicating that omega-3s can help manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.

“While fish oil supplements can offer some benefits, the greatest health gains come from eating whole seafood as part of a balanced diet.”

With chronic diseases on the rise globally, these findings reaffirm the vital role of seafood in a healthy lifestyle.

Health organisations worldwide continue to recommend two servings of seafood per week — a simple step that could yield profound health dividends.

Access the Science Review and the Nutrition Toolkit (summary fact sheets, videos).