The nutritional quality of tuna depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of tuna you buy, the differences in the fishery where it was produced/captured, the diet of the fish, and even water temperatures.
Types of Tuna
There are dozens of different tuna fish species, but tuna companies group tuna into three categories:
1. White or albacore
Tuna is a fatty fish providing high quality protein, B-vitamins, and selenium. The nutrients help the body produce red blood cells, reduce heart disease risk and macular degeneration, and promote brain growth. The protein provides essential amino acids used for body growth and maintenance, while the fat provides a rich source of heart healthy omega 3 fatty acids.
Many organizations, such as the USDA, American Heart Association, and American Dietetic Association have been encouraging people to eat more fish. This includes eating more tuna. Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce heart disease risk, blood clots, and stroke, relieve depression, and help fight certain cancers.
How Much Tuna