Discovering the Less Known Benefits of Omega-3s

More Scientific Supports the Benefits of Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids have been more thoroughly studied than other popular nutrients. They have many powerful health benefits which make them very important. Famous examples are their usefulness for the cardiovascular system and the brain and nervous system. Here we will deal with some of the lesser known benefits, yet still supported by science. 

Omega-3 fatty acids can combat the common mental disorders of depression and anxiety.

Studies show the persons who consume omega-3s regularly are less likely to be depressed, or in some cases, experience improved symptoms   when they start taking omega-3 supplements. Of the three types of omega-3, it’s the EPA type that’s the most effective against depression.

Omega-3s can improve the health of the eyes.

Studies show that sufficient intake of omega-3s are linked to a reduced risk of macular degeneration, a leading cause of permanent eye damage and blindness. Another type of omega-3 called DHA is more efficacious for eye health, and in fact, is a major structural component of the retina. Not enough DHA affects the vision. 

Children with ADHD can benefit from omega-3 fatty acids.

Studies have shown that children with this behavioral disorder have lower levels of Omega-3s in their systems when compared to healthy children. Many studies have supported the findings that omega-3 supplements can reduce the symptoms of ADHD. Omega-3s help improve inattention and task completion, reducing hyperactivity, impulsiveness and aggression. In fact, fish oil supplements were one of the most promising treatments for ADHD. 

Children with asthma can also benefit from omega-3s.

Studies have shown that regular consumption of fish and other seafoods lower the risk of asthma in children and adults. In fact there are studies saying that omega-3 is linked to fewer childhood asthma attacks. Infants and young children given fish oil supplements prevent or decrease allergic outcomes. 

Omega-3 fatty acids may improve sleep.

Low levels of omega-3 fatty acids are associated with sleep problems in children and obstructive sleep apnea in adults. DHA has been found to improve the length and quality of sleep, regarded as optimal to good health. Low DHA levels have been linked to low melatonin levels, the substance that aids sleep. 

Omega-3s can improve skin health.

Again, DHA is a structural component of skin, found in the cell membrane that enables soft, moist, supple and wrinkle-free skin. EPA, the last omega-3 fatty acid type, manages oil production and hydration, reduces premature aging due to sun damage, and the risk of acne. 

Source

Healthy Dining For Healthy Living in Bellevue

Discover our healthy selections of fish and other seafoods at Flo. You’ll know you’re getting the best sources of omega-3s when you dine with us in Bellevue.

Sushi and Sashimi

Do you know the difference between sushi and sashimi?

If you’re dining at our Bellevue sushi restaurant, it’s important distinguish to make. Confusing the two could mean ending up with a dish entirely different from what you were wanting, or it could at very least look unrefined in the eyes of some of the more dedicated Japanese food aficionados.

A helpful point to understand is that the word “sushi” does not refer to the fish, as many people think. It is an antiquated word that translates to “vinegar rice”, describing the blend of rice and vinegar that goes into sushi’s production. Therefore, it’s not sushi if it doesn’t have rice, but it can be sushi without having fish.

Sushi rolls and nigiri-sushi are both sushi, therefore, even if they are made only with egg, cucumber, or nori. Sashimi, by contrast, is only a piece of fish, and therefore cannot be identified as sushi.

Putting Rice First

Everybody knows about Japan’s relationship with rice. This grain is a significant staple throughout much of Asia, and indeed much of the world. Our Bellevue Japanese restaurant is no exception, with rice playing a prominent role in our dinners, our sushi, and of course our sake. But just how important is rice to Japanese dining?

Japan’s treatment of rice marks what is probably the biggest key difference between Eastern and Western culinary philosophy. For most Westerners, the main course of the meal is generally the protein. We put our meat front and center and surround it with a supporting cast of grains and vegetables. In Asia, however, this paradigm is flipped. The main part of the meal is always either a grain or a starch, usually rice, with meat serving to augment the main course along with the vegetables. This attitude could very well account for some of the superior health benefits of Asian-style dining, which you can experience for yourself at Flo Restaurant in Bellevue!

Omakase Sashimi

Custom platter created just for you by our Chef

Feeling adventurous? Come by Flo Japanese Restaurant in Bellevue for some omakase sashimi. Just set a budget, and our head sushi chef will put together a special sashimi meal just for you!

The term “omakase” roughly translates to “It’s up to you”. When you order an omakase meal, you’re giving the chef license to make you whatever he feels like. If you’re not particularly picky, this is a great way to get the best possible sashimi spread. Not only is the chef likely to prepare some of his own personal specialties, but he’s also picking from the best and freshest fish currently available. So come on down for some omakase! You’ll be glad that you did.

How Rice Vinegar is Made

Plain White Rice vs. Sushi Rice

The rice that we use in the sushi at our Bellevue Japanese restaurant is not just normal steamed rice. If you’re familiar with sushi, you may have noticed that sushi rice has a subtle taste and texture to it that goes beyond plain white rice.

So, what is it that turns normal rice into sushi rice?

The answer is sushi vinegar. This is a special variety of vinegar made by mixing rice vinegar with other ingredients. The specific recipe will vary from place to place, but the rice vinegar is fairly universal; the taste of white vinegar is too strong, and would overpower the subtle tastes that you find in sushi. In general, sushi vinegar consists of the rice vinegar, salt, and a sweetening agent like sugar, sake, or occasionally nori.