The gastroenterologist told about the beneficial properties of herring under a fur coat

When a familiar layered salad with a bright beetroot "coat" appears on the New Year's table, many look at it with caution, remembering the calories and fat content. However, contrary to stereotypes, this dish can be quite useful — especially if you know how it benefits the body and how to slightly adjust the recipe. Evgeny Belousov, PhD, gastroenterologist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia about this on December 16.

"The main surprise is that the combination of beetroot and fish has a positive effect on the heart and blood vessels. Beetroot stimulates the production of nitric oxide, a natural vasodilator that helps to gently lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cramps. That is why even a small portion of salad can maintain the normal tone of the vascular system," the doctor said.

Herring has a completely different, but no less important effect: this fish contains a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol and prevent the formation of plaques. As a result, a dish that has long been considered harmful actually works as a small preventive support for the heart.

Fur, that's all: herring under a fur coat has become the most profitable New Year's salad

A table for four in 2025 will cost Russians an average of 9.1 thousand rubles.

If you look at the other layers, the benefits become even more obvious. Boiled beetroot gently stimulates peristalsis, improves digestion and helps the microflora. Carrots, boiled in their skins, retain vitamin A, which is important for vision and skin health. Onions add an impressive amount of vitamin C to the salad — there is no less in a juicy onion than in a citrus fruit. Eggs add high-grade protein, which provides energy and long-lasting satiety. And, of course, herring is a source of protein and omega—3, if you choose it lightly salted and of high quality.

"But the "heaviness" of the dish is most often associated not with the ingredients, but with the mayonnaise. If you replace the purchased sauce with a homemade version or sour cream, the salad becomes much easier and healthier, while maintaining the familiar taste. And the whole secret is moderation: a small portion gives all the benefits — from heart support to vitamins — without harm to the figure," said the specialist.

He stressed that a neatly assembled "fur coat" can not only please with taste, but also become a completely healthy addition to the festive menu. The main thing is the quality of the products, a slightly lighter dressing and a reasonable portion.

Earlier, on December 11, nutritionist Sofia Kovanova called drinking alcohol the most harmful habit at the New Year's table. She recalled the need for pauses between meals and recommended alternating champagne with water with lemon, as well as either combining alcohol with fruit or consuming it separately.

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