The Many Benefits of Eating Hilsa: A Bengali Delight

Is hilsa just another fish to us? For Bengalis, hilsa is much more than that. It is intricately woven into the fabric of Bengali life and culture, stretching across India's Odisha, Bihar, and Assam. This prized fish features prominently in significant social and cultural events such as Paila Baishakh, Jamaishashti, and various Puja celebrations. When relatives and guests visit, serving hilsa enhances the hospitality. Approximately 300 million people in South Asia, including Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, savor hilsa fish, making it one of the most beloved fishes worldwide, trailing only salmon and tuna.

Hilsa's Cultural Significance

The popularity of hilsa isn't a recent phenomenon. The term 'hilsa' has found its way into the names of numerous places and establishments across the region. For instance, Ilishamari, a small village in the Narayanpur union of Chougacha upazila in Jessore, derives its name from the fish. The Kapotaksha river, once mighty during British rule, used to teem with hilsa.

In West Bengal's Murshidabad and Bangladesh's Rajbari district, historical texts mention the Char of Ilishmari in the Padma basin, which has since eroded into the river. In Bhola district, you'll find Ilishakhali, a large canal, and the Ilisha river, renowned for their once-abundant hilsa populations. Even the old Ilishaghat of Chandpur, which is over 400 years old, was a bustling hub where steamers from Calcutta would arrive, filled with people eager to enjoy the hilsa fish.

The Nutritional Powerhouse: Hilsa

Hilsa is not just celebrated for its taste but also for its exceptional nutritional value. Among the fish available in Bangladesh, hilsa boasts the highest nutritional content. Scientists have repeatedly confirmed its benefits. Few fish worldwide offer such a diverse and potent array of nutrients. For instance, 100 grams of hilsa fish contain approximately 310 calories, 22 grams of protein, and 19.5 grams of fat.

Here are some of the key health benefits of consuming hilsa:

1. Heart Health: Hilsa is lower in saturated fat and richer in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) than other fish. These fatty acids help lower blood triglycerides and increase good cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.

2. Blood Circulation: The omega-3 fatty acids in hilsa improve blood circulation, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

3. Joint Health: Omega-3 fatty acids are effective in treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. They also help control infections related to fats.

4. Vision: For people over 40, omega-3 fatty acids help maintain good vision, while the vitamin A in hilsa prevents night blindness.

5. Mental Health: Omega-3 fatty acids can combat depression. Consuming hilsa fish helps reduce symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and post-natal depression.

6. Muscle and Tissue Health: Hilsa contains the amino acid L-arginine, essential for building muscle and tissue.

7. Skin Health: Hilsa protein is rich in collagen, an insoluble protein that enhances overall cell function by improving cell connectivity. The vitamin C in hilsa also keeps the skin healthy, making it look youthful.

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