8 Reasons to Love Fish (Even More Than You Already Do)

8 Reasons to Love Fish (Even More Than You Already Do)

If the idea that eating fish can help you live longer isn’t enough to convince you, don’t worry—we’ve got seven more reasons that deserve a spot on your plate.

Fish is one of those foods that checks every box. It can be elegant or casual, bold or comforting. Think perfectly grilled salmon, flaky baked cod, spicy fish tacos, tuna poke bowls, rich curries, chowders, blackened redfish, or classic fish and chips. No matter how you prepare it—or where you’re eating it—fish delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.

And the benefits go far beyond taste. Fish is high in protein, relatively low in calories, and packed with nutrients that support everything from heart health to brain function. Simply put: it’s one of the smartest (and most delicious) choices you can make.

Here are eight reasons we’ll never stop loving fish.

1. Fish Is Incredible for Heart Health

Fish is one of the richest natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids—healthy fats that do serious good for your heart. Omega-3s help slow plaque buildup in arteries, reduce the risk of blood clots, and lower the chances of heart attacks and strokes.

They’re also known to help manage triglyceride levels, support healthy blood pressure, and reduce inflammation throughout the body. In fact, research shows that eating just two to three servings of fish per week can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by nearly 10%.

That’s a small habit with major payoff.

2. Fish Fuels a Healthy Brain

Fish has long been considered “brain food,” and science backs it up. Regular fish consumption has been linked to improved memory, faster reaction times, and a reduced risk of cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease.

That’s thanks largely to DHA, a type of omega-3 fat that plays a critical role in keeping the brain functioning efficiently. Since the brain is largely made up of fat, it relies on healthy fats to operate at its best—making fish a natural ally for lifelong brain health.

3. Fish Supports Strong, Healthy Growth

Fish isn’t just great for adults—it’s essential for growing bodies, too. Nutrition experts consistently point to fish as one of the most important foods for brain and visual development during pregnancy and early childhood.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are often encouraged to eat more fish than other adults because its high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3s are so critical during early development. Starting this habit early and maintaining it throughout life supports heart, eye, and brain health for years to come.

4. Fish Can Boost Your Mood

Fish has earned a reputation as nature’s mood booster—and for good reason. Omega-3 fats have been studied in dozens of clinical trials focused on depression and emotional well-being, with promising results.

Regular fish consumption has been associated with improved mood regulation, reduced severity of depressive symptoms, and better emotional balance overall. While fish alone isn’t a cure-all, it can be a powerful part of a supportive, mood-friendly diet.

Fish also provides vitamin D, a nutrient many people lack—especially during darker winter months. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and getting enough can help support both mood and mental health.

5. Fish Supports Healthy Vision

What’s good for your heart and brain is also good for your eyes. DHA plays a critical role in the retina, helping your eyes process visual information clearly and efficiently.

Large-scale research analyzing the diets and health outcomes of over 120,000 people has found a clear link between regular fish consumption and a lower risk of age-related vision loss. Eating fish consistently is one simple way to help protect your eyesight as you age.

6. Fish Is Basically a Multivitamin on a Plate

Fish delivers an impressive lineup of essential nutrients many people don’t get enough of. In addition to omega-3s and high-quality protein, fish provides magnesium, selenium, iodine, and vitamin D—nutrients often considered “shortfall” nutrients in modern diets.

Salmon and trout are standout sources of vitamin D, while cod and haddock supply iodine to support thyroid function. Selenium helps protect cells from damage, and magnesium supports hundreds of vital processes throughout the body.

One ingredient. Serious nutrition.

7. Fish May Help You Live Longer

As if all that weren’t enough, regular fish consumption is also linked to increased longevity.

In a long-term study following more than 420,000 adults over 16 years, researchers found that people who ate fish most frequently were significantly less likely to die during the study period. They experienced lower rates of death from heart disease, cancer, respiratory illness, and liver disease.

Eating fish regularly isn’t just about feeling good now—it’s about investing in your future health.

8. Fish Is One of the Most Versatile Foods Out There

With more than 32,000 species of fish in existence—and over 200 considered commonly edible—the possibilities are nearly endless.

Fish can be grilled, baked, pan-seared, air-fried, smoked, canned, or eaten straight from the tin. Make tacos, burgers, salads, breakfast scrambles, or simple weeknight dinners. Fresh, frozen, canned, or pouched—it all counts.

Fish cooks quickly, requires minimal seasoning, and pairs well with just about everything. Add salt, pepper, garlic, a squeeze of lemon, and you’re done. Easy, affordable, and endlessly adaptable.

Bottom line?
Fish is flavorful, flexible, nourishing, and downright good for you. If you’re not already eating it twice a week, there’s never been a better time to get hooked.