Sushi is a Japanese dish that is prepared with vinegared rice, some seasonings, raw seafood and vegetables. Although sushi lovers are getting an intake of protein and veggies, it is not all the time that sushi can be good for you.
Below are the best and worst sushi for your health, according to WebMD:
The good stuff
- Salmon: This is one of the foods that is the highest in omega-3 fatty acids. When it comes to sushi, salmon is a great choice when paired with hand-pressed rice (nigiri) or wrapped in seaweed to make a roll (maki). However, sauces and other ingredients can hike the fat and calories.
- Vegetarian roll: A great healthy option for vegetarians, these rolls include ingredients like avocado, cucumber, carrot, mushroom, onion, asparagus or tofu.
- California roll: Quite a classic, the California roll contains rice, seaweed, avocado, cucumber and ‘crab’ (usually imitation crab). It is advised that you stay away from high-calorie, fatty, mayonnaise-like dips and sauces.
- Avocado: Incorporated in many sushi dishes, avocados are high in heart-healthy fats and fibre and are packed with other healthy nutrients that help your kidneys, heart and nerves work better.
The bad stuff
- Philadelphia roll: With its main ingredient being cream cheese, a Philadelphia roll is considered far from healthy. That is, unless, it is made with low-fat cream cheese.
- Prawn tempura: Tempura equals battering and deep-frying, and can add unnecessary fat and calories. Regarding prawns, it does not have nearly the same nutritional value as salmon. However, it can still be a source of protein.
- Dragon roll: Although tasty, a dragon roll contains sauces that are calorie-heavy.
Also see: 6 Surprising foods that will age you