Let’s discuss, Is Shrimp Healthy? Here’s The Reason Why You Should Eat It
Do Shrimps have Healthy Nutrients?
Yes!!! Shrimps are loaded with lots of vitamins and minerals. I know you wouldn’t like to miss out, right?
Research has shown that 90% of calorie intake in shrimp contains protein and fat; however, it makes it low in calories, which can give 84% in a 3-ounce (85-gram) serving.
Here are the nutrients in a 3-ounce (85-gram) serving:
- Protein: 18 grams
- Calories: 84
- Selenium: 48% of the RDI
- Vitamin B12: 21% of the RDI
- Iron: 15% of the RDI
- Phosphorus: 12% of the RDI
- Magnesium: 7% of the RDI
- Niacin: 11% of the RDI
- Zinc: 9% of the RDI
Interestingly, shrimp is shown to be the best source of iodine. Iodine is an essential mineral that many people are deficient in, which is required for proper thyroid function and brain health.
Are you looking for a means to increase your intake of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids?. Surprisingly, these sea fish are a quiet way to get those sources.
Is Shrimp High in Cholesterol?
This sea fish contains a high content of cholesterol. One serving of 3-ounce(85g) contains 166 mg of cholesterol.
This indicates that among other seafood, shrimp is 85% more than the amount of cholesterol. This proves backed by research.
Notably, research shows that in some cases, high cholesterol differs. The reason is that most of the cholesterol in your blood is produced by the liver, and when you eat foods high in cholesterol, your liver produces less.
I know you wouldn’t stop thinking of this shellfish.
According to research, shrimp contains several nutrients that may boost health, such as omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin antioxidants.
One study found that 356 women who consumed shellfish, including shrimp, regularly had lower triglycerides and blood pressure levels compared to those who did not include sea fish in their diets.
Research has also shown that people who consume shrimp regularly do not have a higher risk of heart disease than those who do not eat it.
More research is needed to explore shrimp’s role in heart health.
It Contains Antioxidants
The type of antioxidant in shrimp is a carotenoid called astaxanthin.
Astaxanthin is a component of algae, which is gotten by shrimp, making it a major source of astaxanthin. Surprising, this antioxidant is responsible for the reddish color of shrimp cells.
Astaxanthin may help protect against inflammation by preventing free radicals from damaging your cells. However, studies showed that it plays a role in reducing the risk of several chronic diseases.
Also, astaxanthin may help strengthen arteries, which may decrease the risk of heart attacks. Moreso, it may help increase levels of “good” HDL cholesterol, an essential factor in heart health.
Finally, in the study, astaxanthin may be beneficial for brain health. Its anti-inflammatory properties may prevent damage to your brain cells that often leads to memory loss and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.
How can I Choose High-Quality Shrimp?
Basically, choosing a high quality is essential. It is important to purchase shrimp from a knowledgeable and reputable supplier.
Lastly, raw and cooked shrimp should have a mild, “ocean-like” or salty smell. Shrimp with an overwhelming “fishy” or ammonia-like odor is likely spoiled and unsafe to consume.
Conclusion
Shrimp have many health benefits. It is high in several vitamins and minerals and is a rich source of protein.
Consuming this sea fish may also promote heart and brain health due to its content of omega-3 fatty acids and the antioxidant astaxanthin.
In summary, shrimp is a healthy food that can fit well into a balanced diet.
