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Red Snapper: St. Thomas Virgin Islands




During the summer of 2017, I spent one month in the St. Thomas Virgin Islands with my Tanty Vivette - what an education! We spent the summer reacquainting with one another, introspecting within ourselves, learning how to thrive in a new environment, growing into our unique selves, relaxing at Coki Beach and exploring the amazing cuisine. Amongst the many fabulous meals we shared together, one that is most memorable is the delectable Red Snapper.


Red Snapper is such a beautifully flavorful, flaky, and and tender fish. Within Traditional Chinese Medicine, fish in general have the following functions within the body: Strengthens spleen (strengthens proper digestive functioning), tonifies Qi (strengthens the body's life force and vital energy), removes dampness (removes the accumulation of excess fluid), regulates blood (quantity), aids diarrhea from spleen weakness (regulates improper functioning of a weak digestive system). [1], [2], [3]


From the Western nutritional viewpoint, Red Snapper is a low-calorie, lean source of protein that is rich in selenium, vitamin A, potassium and omega-3 fatty acids. [4]

  • Selenium: Selenium supports white blood cell function and is required for the thyroid gland to work properly. It is an antioxidant that may be able to prevent free radical compounds from causing the DNA damage that can lead to rheumatoid arthritis, cancer and heart disease.

  • Vitamin A: Vital for the immune system, the production and maintenance of bones and the health of the skin and eyes, vitamin A also plays a role in cell reproduction and differentiation.

  • Potassium: Potassium is both a mineral and an electrolyte. It is required by the body to trigger enzymes needed in energy metabolism and to allow smooth, cardiac and skeletal muscles to contract properly.

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The American Heart Association reports that eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids regularly may significantly decrease your risk of heart disease, atherosclerosis and high blood cholesterol. Pregnant women and children should avoid eating red snapper more than a few times a month to prevent mercury contamination.

From the eastern hemisphere to the west, all can agree that Red Snapper is a nutritional addition into your diet. Here is a step-be-step recipe of how to prepare authentic Jamaican Red Snapper for your family. #HealWithIntention



Key Words: St. Thomas Virgin Islands, Coki Beach, Red Snapper, Traditional Chinese Medicine, TCM, Selenium, Vitamin A, Potassium, and Omega-3 Fatty Acids

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