Are charales nutritious?

The Mexicans are famous for eating all kinds of foods and ingredients that many consider strange, such as pancita, tripe tacos, chapulines, and more. However, it’s not all about offal and insects, as we also enjoy delicacies like charales, which also have many health benefits. Discover what they are! You can also read: 5 benefits of eating sardines What are charales? Charales are small fish that live in Mexican lakes and are also an emblem of Mexican cuisine, as they can be incorporated into tamales, cakes, sauces, tacos, and much more.  We can find salty and dried charales in markets and tianguis, to then cook them our way or enjoy them as a snack.  The history of these fish is even more interesting, as indigenous peoples have consumed them for thousands of years. Have you tried them? See more: 5 benefits of eating salmonIs it good to eat charales? In addition to being an ingredient with a lot of history, charales are also rich in a great number of vitamins and minerals. According to the National Commission of Aquaculture and Fisheries, here are some of the nutrients we can find in charales:  Calcium: This mineral will help you maintain healthy and strong bones and teeth.  Phosphorus: Another essential mineral for bones and teeth. Additionally, it is also important for the kidneys and muscles.  Iron: The body uses it in the production of hemoglobin. The body does not produce it, so it must be ingested through food or supplements.  Magnesium: The body requires it for the proper functioning of muscles and nerves, according to the National Library of Medicine.  Niacin: This type of vitamin B is essential for the skin and the digestive system, according to experts.  Omega-3: These types of fats help strengthen our neurons and also protect your heart.  Potassium: Maintains a constant heart rhythm, and the body uses it for muscle contraction and nerves.  Vitamin A: This vitamin is essential for teeth, bones, and skin.  Vitamin B: B-complex vitamins are essential for maintaining good health.  Vitamin C: The body requires this nutrient to produce collagen and it is a type of antioxidant.  Vitamin E: This antioxidant protects the body from damage caused by free radicals.  Iodine: It is a very important nutrient for the proper functioning of the thyroid.  In general, charales are considered an incredibly healthy food, and the National Commission of Aquaculture and Fisheries points out that “they help reduce cholesterol levels and heart diseases, among other things, they prevent anemia and osteoporosis.” As you can see, these small fish are an excellent option to include in your diet, as they have benefits for your bones, heart, and more. Are you encouraged to try them with Kiwilimon? Read more: 15 easy recipes with paper-wrapped fish