How Eating Wild-Caught Fish Can Affect Immunity Building

Wild-caught fish isn't just delicious, it's a key player in supporting immunity. Among other physiological benefits, eating wild-caught fish twice a week is linked to reduced inflammation and improved immunity. But what is it in seafood that helps our immune systems out? The answer lies in certain vital nutrients like omega-3s, vitamin D, and selenium. Salmon is a superfood powerhouse that contains these important nutrients — more so than many land-based proteins.

But it’s not just salmon that contains essential nutritional goodness. You’ll also find healthy fats and vitamins in Pacific cod, Pacific halibut, and other finfish.

Researchers are looking deep into how these essential nutrients strengthen our immune systems, how they impact our brain health, and more. We get to reap those rewards, while enjoying delicious wild-caught seafood!

Read on to find out how healthy fatty acids and micronutrients support immunity.

Can Foods with Omega-3s Boost Immunity?

Everyone wants a quick fix for staying healthy, especially during cold and flu season. Some people think a pill packed with omega-3s could be the answer. And we bet fish oil companies would love an immunity-boosting “silver bullet” for common illnesses. Indeed, research suggests¹ that omega-3s support a healthy immune system. Still, popping fish oil pills might not stop you from getting sick.

But eating wild-caught fish may help support immunity through its omega-3 fatty acids². Salmon and other fish are known to contain these healthy fats, which help support healthy immunity response to pathogens that cause colds.

Think of it this way: when you're stressed out or not sleeping well, your body gets worn down. That's when you're more likely to catch a bug. Omega-3s can support a healthy stress response³. Plus, it's a tasty way to stay healthy. There’s research that suggests that omega-3s can help your body handle stress better so your immune system can work at full strength.

Other Nutrients That Support Immune System Health

Omega-3s aren’t the only powerful nutrients in wild-caught fish. When it comes to immune-boosting seafood, vitamin D, selenium and others play vital roles. While each of these nutrients individually support immune function, they often work synergistically. Check out these other crucial nutrients that help fortify our body's natural defense system.

Vitamin D

Known as the "sunshine vitamin," Vitamin D⁴ plays a pivotal role in supporting immune function. Wild salmon is a rich source of this important vitamin. Vitamin D enhances the production of proteins that help combat infections⁵ like the flu and common cold. These proteins, or peptides, build our body's defense against pathogens.

Selenium

Selenium⁶ is another key element in immune support. The trace mineral boosts white blood cells and acts as a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants fight harmful free radicals⁷ that can compromise immune function. Moreover, selenium aids in the production of enzymes essential for immune regulation, promoting a robust and balanced immune response. You’ll find selenium in Pacific halibut, Pacific cod, and salmon.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A⁸ is commonly associated with vision health. But it also has profound effects on immune function. It supports the development and maintenance of mucus membranes in the respiratory and GI tracts, acting as a barrier against invading pathogens. Further, vitamin A plays a crucial role in differentiating and activating immune cells. This supports their ability to recognize and eliminate threats. Fatty fish like salmon and sablefish are marine sources of vitamin A.

Vitamin B6

Salmon and halibut are great sources of vitamin B6⁹. Part of the B-complex family, B6 is essential for various aspects of immune function. It facilitates the production of antibodies that recognize and neutralize harmful pathogens. Additionally, vitamin B6 is involved in the metabolism of amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins crucial for increasing the number of immune cells and their function.

Vitamin E

Salmon and Wild Alaska Pollock both contain vitamin E¹⁰, a potent antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E also supports immune function by enhancing the activity of immune cells and promoting overall health.

Magnesium

Magnesium¹¹ is necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system. This vital micronutrient can be found in salmon, halibut, and Wild Alaska Pollock. Magnesium helps regulate immune cell activity and supports the body's ability to fight off infections.

Adding wild-caught fish in you diet isn't just about delicious meals — it's also about nourishing your body with immune-supporting nutrients. From salmon to Pacific halibut — each species offers a unique blend of essential nutrients.

While the underlying mechanisms are still under investigation, including wild-caught fish in your diet pays tasty dividends. A variety of nutrients found in seafood can help support your immune system and support overall well-being. Certainly, we could all use that in today's demanding world.

Buy Nutritious Wild-Caught Seafood

Stock your freezer with nutrient-dense fish by sourcing fresh-frozen seafood from Wild Alaskan Company. You’ll get a rotating choice of wild-caught fish and shellfish delivered straight to your doorstep with a fish subscription box.