Proximate Analyses of Some Selected Marine Food Fish from Farasan Island for Their Anti-Inflammatory Bioactivities and Cognitive Effects on Developing Fetus

Background: Essential nutrients are critical for brain development and function. Inflammation involves an overproduction and release of reactive oxygen species. Various NSAIDs are used to treat inflammations. However, the serious side effects of some of these therapeutic agents often create a very high risk/benefit ratio. Fish contains high concentrations of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), which are essential nutrients for cell membrane formation, the development of neurons and their synaptic connexions. Regular consumption of fish has been related to several health benefits, including decreased incidence of inflammatory diseases, prevention of cardiovascular diseases and cancer, and normal brain development and function. These positive effects have been attributed to the high content of ω3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), proteins, vitamins and minerals, as well as low cholesterol levels.