Can This Fish Really Control Blood Sugar, Cut Cholesterol, And Boost Heart Health?

Bengalis are known for their love of fish, yet they remain highly selective about the varieties they consume. While Hilsa, Rui, Katla, Pabda, and Parsa dominate traditional Bengali kitchens, certain other fish, despite their nutritional benefits, are often ignored, especially strongly-scented varieties. Now, new research suggests that one such underrated marine fish could play a powerful role in managing serious health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and liver problems.

In an era where diabetes, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease are becoming household concerns, a recent scientific study has shed light on the unexpected health benefits of Bhola Bhetki, a marine fish native to Indian coastal waters. Long overlooked by many due to its strong smell, this fish may offer remarkable medicinal potential.

The breakthrough comes from collaborative research conducted by professors and students from Belda College and Vidyasagar University in Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, along with Raja Narendralal Khan Women’s College, Medinipur. Led by Professor Kaushik Das (Belda College), the study began in 2017–18 and involved contributions from Professor Srabanti Pain, Jayshree Laha, and student researchers including Sanjay Das, Supriya Bhowmik, and Sayan Panda.

Professor Srabanti Pain explained that the regular consumption of Bhola Bhetki helped reduce blood pressure and the risk of heart disease. The research also found notable improvements in joint pain and menstrual discomfort among seafood consumers. In a study of 124 people from coastal areas, only three or four had diabetes, compared to nearly 30 percent among freshwater fish eaters.

Further testing involved lab rats fed with marine fish alongside their usual and sugar-rich diets. The results were striking: rats showed abnormally low blood sugar levels, suggesting that components of Bhola Bhetki actively combat hyperglycaemia.

Professor Pain was honoured at the West Bengal Science and Technology Congress 2023 for her work. Researchers believe that isolating the active ingredient in capsule form could offer a breakthrough in diabetes treatment. Despite the fish’s strong smell, its health benefits are now making people think twice before turning it down.