Lunch: Perfect Parchment-Baked Salmon

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Salmon, Lemon, Asparagus

Health benefits of Perfect Parchment-Baked Salmon

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for reducing inflammation and promoting cardiovascular health. It is also rich in vitamin D, which helps regulate insulin levels and improve mood, both of which are important for managing PCOS symptoms. Additionally, salmon provides a good amount of B vitamins, particularly B12, which supports energy production and helps maintain healthy nerve function. Including salmon in your diet can help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and support overall well-being. Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form.

Asparagus stands out as a superfood for managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder affecting many women of reproductive age. This nutrient-dense vegetable offers a myriad of health benefits that align perfectly with the dietary needs of those managing PCOS, making it an essential addition to their diet.

Rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals, asparagus is particularly high in folate, vitamins A, C, E, and K, and has significant levels of chromium—a trace mineral that enhances the ability of insulin to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells. This is particularly beneficial for women with PCOS, as they often experience insulin resistance, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and potentially contributing to weight gain and metabolic complications. By improving insulin sensitivity, asparagus can help manage these symptoms more effectively.

Furthermore, asparagus is a great source of dietary fiber, which plays a key role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar, offering another layer of support for insulin resistance. Additionally, the high fiber content in asparagus can aid in weight management, an important aspect for those with PCOS, as maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the severity of the condition's symptoms.

Asparagus also contains a unique compound called inulin, a prebiotic that promotes digestive health by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for overall health and can have a positive impact on the management of PCOS by improving digestion, nutrient absorption, and possibly even hormonal balance.

Incorporating asparagus into the diet can be both easy and delicious. It can be grilled, roasted, steamed, or added to salads, omelets, and stir-fries. Its versatility and nutritional profile make asparagus an invaluable superfood for those looking to manage PCOS symptoms through a healthy and balanced diet. By contributing to better insulin sensitivity, weight management, and digestive health, asparagus offers a natural way to support the body in dealing with the challenges of PCOS.

Ingredients

1/2 Yukon Gold Potato, Very Thinly Sliced
8 stalks Asparagus, Trimmed, Each Stalk Cut In Half
1 Tablespoon Thinly Sliced Red Onion
6 ounces, weight Center Cut Salmon Fillet
2 teaspoons Olive Oil
3 slices (thin) Lemon
Kosher Salt And Black Pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 ºF. Prepare a large oval of parchment paper and fold it in half.
Place thinly sliced pieces of potato on the bottom half of the parchment. Add asparagus pieces and red onion slices. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of olive oil and then sprinkle with kosher salt and a little fresh chopped parsley.
Place salmon fillet on the vegetables. Drizzle salmon with the remaining teaspoon olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper. Top with lemon slices and thyme leaves.
Fold the parchment paper over starting at one corner and pinch the edges over to close the packet. When the edges are completely closed, it will look like a calzone!
Bake the fish for 14 minutes on the center rack in the oven, and then remove and unwrap or cut the top of the packet and serve in the paper. Serve immediately.

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