Embracing Sardines

I was invited to a white elephant gift exchange party this past Christmas, and I totally forgot to go out get a gift. Right before, I was frantically searching throughout my house for something--anything. I found a hot glue gun that I hadn't used in years and a can of wild-caught, Portuguese sardines that I'd just bought the day before. Even though the sardines were high-quality, I knew on a very basic level that they would not be appreciated--perfect! The time came for the gift exchange. The receiver's reaction was just as I'd predicted. He was completely dismayed that he had fallen for the beautiful wrapping that encased such a horrid and non-beneficial gift....or so he thought.
Let's not forget that quality sardines taste REALLY GOOD. The other thing is, they are an excellent source of essential Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which most people don't get enough of. Actually, the U.S. is globally at the bottom of the list for Omega-3 intake via oily fish. To get enough, we need at least 2 servings of fatty fish per week (salmon, tuna, mackerel, trout and, of course, sardines fit into this category as well).
Why you ask?
Well, for one thing, Omega-3s are known to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Inflammatory processes include, but are not limited to, arthritis, lupus, aging, atherosclerosis (the build-up of plaque on artery walls), diabetes, etc.
These wonderful fatty acids also:
Keep the blood from clotting excessively.
Help to lower triglyceride levels in the blood.
Maintain cell wall integrity (healthy, fluid cells = healthy body)
Help the body to remain sensitive to insulin (prevents diabetes)
Are a key factor in eye health (retina) and preventing macular degeneration.
And MORE!

I actually went out and re-bought that variety of sardines, and had them as a part of my lunch today. Here's how I prepared them:

1.Drain oil from can (Give it to your dog or cat over their food as a treat. Pets need healthy oils, too.).
2. With a fork, mix a tablespoon (or two) of homemade (always better) or store-bought basil pesto with the sardines--just mash them up together on a plate. They are soft and without bones, so it's no hassle at all.
3. Spread onto your favorite 100%whole grain cracker. I used Wasa Rye crackers today.

This was TASTY, FAST and SO NOURISHING on so many levels. Aside from Omega-3s, the nutrient profile of sardines is pretty stellar. So, the next time someone says sardines, smile, don't grimace.

Peace and Namaste,
The Gourmet Healer