A healthy ceviche starts with fish. Whether you want to eat it to lose weight or know if it's safe to eat raw fish. So is ceviche healthy or not?

Ceviche is a Peruvian dish that has raw, uncooked fish as its main ingredient. But the fish is "cooked" with lemon juice. This dish won international awards as the best of Peruvian food. Because from the first bite you feel a fresh fish bathed in lemon juice and caresses you with a vibrant citrus flavor. You will feel an explosion of freshness and vitality. The onion accompanies with a crunch of sweetness while the chili gives it a perfect combination to make you want to keep enjoying it.

Is it healthy?

Peruvian ceviche | Ultimate Trekking
Peruvian ceviche | Photo by @ceviche19

Ceviche is healthy because it is low in calories (200 - 300 per serving) and low in fat.  And it contains nutritious ingredients such as fish that is rich in protein. But there is one exception: salmon and other fish with a high oil content are not low in fat.

Ceviche ingredients such as fresh lime, red onions, and chili bell pepper carry vitamin C, potassium, manganese, biotin, and vitamins A, K and E. The best nutritional feast for your body.

If you are looking to lose weight. You have to moderate and control the portions of ceviche so you can include it in your weight loss diet.

To all this we add the traditional accompaniments of ceviche. Roasted corn and sweet potatoes add nutritional value. One ear of corn can contain 58 calories, plus vitamin C and fiber.

Healthy Benefits of Ceviche

  1. It is rich in protein because its main ingredient is fresh fish. 
  2. It is low in calories and allows you to use it in your diet, as an option to maintain or lose weight. 
  3. Fish is a source of Omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and tuna. This mainly benefits heart health.
  4. It has vitamins C, B, A, K and E, as well as potassium, manganese and biotin. This supports immune function, skin health and energy.
  5. Most fish are low in saturated fat, with the exception of salmon. A heart-healthy diet.
  6. Chili peppers and onions are rich in antioxidants, and this promotes healthy skin.
  7. Choclo or corn that accompanies the ceviche contains fiber that promotes intestinal transit and prevents constipation.
  8. The dish has a low glycemic index which means that it keeps blood sugar levels stable. It is even recommended for people with diabetes or those seeking to maintain sugar levels.

Recommendations before tasting:

  • Always use fresh fish and avoid fish that has been stored for a long time. Make sure you buy it from a reliable source.
  • Pregnant women and people suffering from liver problems should avoid raw fish.
  • If you are going to make ceviche, cut the fish into uniformly sized cubes so that the "cooked" is uniform.
  • If you want to lose weight, but want to accompany it with a Peruvian drink. Don't overdo it with Inka Cola soda or Cusqueña beer.

Conclusion:

Ceviche is healthy to lose weight and to taste as a culinary delight. Because it is a nutritious option that can be part of a diet.  Enjoy the great health benefits of this marine delicacy. It is ideal for any time of the day without the need to worry about calories or saturated fats. Ceviche is a rich tool to take care of your well-being. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What is ceviche made of?

It mainly contains fish, lemon juice, chili, salt and onion. It is accompanied with corn or sweet potato. After 15 minutes of adding the lemon juice to the fish, it is served for you to eat it.

  • What is the difference between Peruvian and Mexican ceviche?

The difference is that Mexican ceviche contains jalapeño, tomatoes, cilantro and other fresh ingredients. On the other hand, Peruvian ceviche keeps its unique flavor with simplicity: onion, chili, lime juice, sweet potato and corn.

  • Why is Peruvian ceviche so good?

Just as the heat would do, the citrus juices modify the proteins in the fish. This allows it to be a delicacy while maintaining its freshness. 

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