Sushi - Healthy and Convenient

Sushi has been popular for hundreds of years in Japan, and recent years has seen a similar trend in the Western world. Sushi bars or restaurants have begun to spring up in most cities and you will in all likelihood find yourself invited to experience sushi firsthand at some point. The thought of eating raw fish may not seem enticing but sushi is a delicious food that can be enjoyed by anyone no matter what your age or dietary preferences.

The form of sushi served in modern sushi bars became popular in Tokyo around 1820 although sushi’s history dates back to the 7th century. The original variety of sushi which required a lengthy pickling process was developed so that sushi could be enjoyed fresh from a portable stall. The fast-food approach to sushi we see today has seen Sushi Bars gaining popularity the world over.

Made mostly with rice, fish and vegetables Sushi is a very healthy meal. To maintain the flavors and for the safety of the eater Sushi should always be made with fresh ingredients. Soya sauce, ginger and wasabi are used to enhance the delicate flavors of rice, vegetables and fish in Sushi to produce a nutritious and tasty meal.

The health benefits of sushi include:

• Vitamin A, B-complex, Niacin and Vitamin C from the thin, toasted seaweed sheets, (called Nori), used in rolled (maki) sushi. Nori is also good for digestion.


• The rice used in making sushi is low in fat and sodium free, and while not as healthy as brown rice it is a complex carbohydrate which provides fuel for your body.


• Protein and minerals from the fish used in the sushi.


• Vitamins and other nutrients from the fresh, uncooked vegetables used in Sushi.


• The condiments served with sushi also have certain health benefits.

The naturally fermented soya sauce used in sushi has been associated with reduced menopausal symptoms and lower breast cancer in Asian cultures where Soya sauce and other soya based foods is a staple in their diets. Soya is low in saturated fats, cholesterol free, and a high quality protein source.

Those concerned with the bacteria found in uncooked meat will find the bacteria fighting qualities of ginger and wasabi of special interest as they are commonly served alongside sushi.
Ginger, (called ‘gari’), along with its bacteria fighting qualities also aids digestion. Wasabi, (Japanese horseradish), can also kill bacteria found in raw fish and is sometimes served as a garnish or included in nigiri sushi.

A visit to your local sushi bar will get you a fast-food meal with numerous health benefits which is an appealing alternative to the usual western style high fat fast foods. Give sushi a try; you just might discover your next favorite food.

Colin L Wolfenden
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