Tilapia: Eat or Not to Eat

There is much controversy surrounding tilapia fish. While some believe it’s healthy and nutritious, others think its nutritional content makes it an unhealthy alternative. Fishing practices have also questioned its impact on the environment and whether or not it’s a sustainable food source.

Healthy Inbox

Healthy Inbox January 5, 2023 — 1 minute read

Here’s everything you need to know the next time tilapia is on the menu.

Nutritional Information

One of the main concerns regarding tilapia is the amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which is considerably lower than in other fishes.

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats present in our food. Many rely on these fatty acids to lower inflammation and blood triglycerides.

The bad news about tilapia is that it only contains 235.2 mg of omega-3 per 3.5-ounce serving.

Another lower point for tilapia is that it contains high levels of omega-6 acids, which are less nutritional than omega-3. What’s more, omega-6 acids can be harmful and increase inflammation when consumed in excess.

Farming Practices

Tilapia is a relatively inexpensive fish, which increases its demand. For that reason, some countries have tried to meet that demand and introduced cheap and questionable farming practices that may put a person’s health in danger. Some of these practices may include overcrowded ponds and using raw sewage as sustenance. These poor farming choices have led people to wonder whether tilapia is a sustainable food source in the long run.

Should You Eat Tilapia?

Tilapia may be an affordable dish. However, eating in moderation is necessary to avoid its negative impact on your health. Also, ensure that you get it from a reputable source to prevent the risk of receiving contaminated fish.