Fish Heads
While fish heads are often avoided due to their bony structure and perceived dirtiness, they boast a high nutritional value. They are rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin B1, and various other essential nutrients. Particularly, the heads of fatty fish from the deep sea are exceptionally nutritious and beneficial for overall health.
Additionally, the brain found in fish heads is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and phospholipids. These compounds are known to support brain development, prevent strokes, enhance memory, and even play a role in preventing and treating Alzheimer’s disease.
Fish Scales
Most people discard fish scales, focusing only on the skin and fleshy parts of the fish. However, fish scales are surprisingly nutritious and offer a range of health benefits. They contain significant amounts of lecithin, which is known to improve memory and delay brain cell aging.

Nutritious Parts of Fish You Shouldn’t Discard
Fish scales are also rich in unsaturated fatty acids, which can help lower cholesterol buildup in blood vessels, promoting smooth blood circulation. Additionally, they are beneficial for preventing blood vessel-related conditions such as coronary heart disease, cerebral infarction, hypertension, and cerebral hemorrhage. The high calcium and phosphorus content in fish scales can help prevent rickets in children and osteoporosis in the elderly. Furthermore, fish scales are known for their beauty-enhancing properties, as the collagen they contain is highly absorbable compared to other sources.
Fish Bladders
Fish bladders are often overlooked or considered undesirable due to their perceived dirtiness or unfamiliar texture and flavor. However, this is a missed opportunity, as fish bladders are rich in protein (76-79%), micronutrients, vitamins, zinc, and iron, while being low in fat. They are especially beneficial for calcium absorption in children. Fish bladders are also a rich source of collagen, which helps slow down the aging process and promotes healthy skin and hair. In traditional Chinese medicine, fish bladders are used to treat insomnia, kidney deficiencies, and physical fatigue.