Sushi is a Japanese dish that is enjoyed by many. It’s a great go-to meal for lunch or at any time of the day. When going out with friends or on a date, sushi can be a good healthy choice. It can be a pretty healthy meal when prepared properly but we should be mindful of the ingredients in sushi that can make it somewhat unhealthy.
First, let’s break down the ingredients in a sushi roll. Fish, white rice, sweet and salty sauces, mayonnaise, sake, fried ingredients (depending on what you order), and soy sauce for dipping. While the fish is a great source of protein and essential fatty acids, it’s the other ingredients that can quickly add up to consuming more calories, fat, and sodium than intended with little to no nutritional value.
The fish in a sushi roll is a concern because some varieties of fish such as tuna, marlin, swordfish, ahi tuna, king mackerel, and shark contain mercury. Some have higher amounts than others but exposure to high levels of mercury can lead to various health issues such as memory loss, fatigue, depression, and weight loss among other issues.
The rice in a sushi roll is usually made of white rice. The white rice is usually mixed with vinegar and sugar and packed tight. According to Rebekah Blakely, RDN, a registered dietitian and nutrition expert for the