Lent

I'm not sure why, but avoiding meat on Fridays seems the be so difficult for me. Breakfast is no big deal because I usually only eat cereal, oatmeal or an egg with toast. But when lunch rolls around and I'm looking into my fridge at the week's leftovers, I feel like I have no options because everything has some kind of meat in it. Today I opted for mac n cheese, which was delicious but lacking. Dinner doesn't bother me as much. I love going out to the fish fry's and I actually really like the filet-o-fish from McDonald's, as unhealthy as it may be.
I wish I ate more fish but until recently I never liked it. All I would ever eat was deep fried cod or the frozen, fake fish patties and sticks. Not the healthiest of choices. When I was in Florida last week, I was forced to eat Grouper and Amber jack. When I say forced, I mean I would have walked away from the table after eating only a salad and some bread. Not very fulfilling. So I tried the fish and loved it to my surprise.
I've read and heard from different sources that "they" (whoever they may be) recommend we eat fish for at least 2 meals a week. As someone who generally only eats fish during Lent, that's a lot. With my new found love for it, I would like to start eating it more often, I just have no idea how to cook it. Also, living in Michigan, we don't get the delicious options they have down in the gulf. I'm more of a fan of salt water fish than fresh water fish, and if I'm going to eat grilled fish, I definitely prefer to have it as fresh as possible. Oh, the dilemma.


Here are some benefits to eating more fish:

• People who eat baked or broiled fish at least once a week may improve their brain health and cut the risk of developing memory problems or Alzheimer's disease, according to a study presented today at the Radiological Society of North America's annual meeting in Chicago. (AARP.com)
  
• Omega-3 fatty acids may decrease triglycerides, lower blood pressure, reduce blood clotting, boost immunity and improve arthritis symptoms, and in children may improve learning ability. Eating one to two servings a week of fish, particularly fish that's rich in omega-3 fatty acids, appears to reduce the risk of heart disease, particularly sudden cardiac death. (mayoclinic.com)