Draining the sardines is especially worth considering when the can contains a salty brine or a large amount of oil.
You can then serve the sardines with fresh vegetables, salad, or another low-sodium food.
3. Eating Them Every Single Day
Sardines can be nutritious, but more isn’t always better.
Eating the same food every day can make your overall diet less varied. Canned varieties can also contain significant amounts of sodium, depending on the product.
A better approach is to include different sources of protein and healthy fats throughout the week.
You can alternate sardines with fresh fish, eggs, beans, poultry, or other nutritious foods.
4. Choosing the Preservation Oil Without Checking the Label
The liquid surrounding the sardines can vary greatly from one product to another.
Some cans contain olive oil, while others use different vegetable oils or water.
If you’re trying to make a healthier choice, compare the labels rather than assuming every can has the same nutritional profile.
Sardines themselves are naturally a source of omega-3 fats, so checking the type and amount of added fat can help you choose a product that better fits your diet.
5. Ignoring the Can and Its Packaging
There is another detail that many shoppers overlook: the packaging itself.