Shrimp is a high-nutrient, low-calorie seafood. This low-carbohydrate food provides numerous vitamins, minerals, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Shrimp has various health benefits, including weight loss, reduced risk of heart disease, and decreased premature aging. Further, it promotes brain health and thyroid function.
Additionally, it is also high in iodine, a mineral that is difficult to find in other food items. Shrimp also includes an antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of a number of chronic diseases. Whether you want to incorporate prawns into your diet to live a healthier lifestyle or just maintain a healthy weight, prawns have numerous health benefits, that are discussed in more detail below.
Shrimp Facts
Shrimp is a shellfish rich in fatty acids found in both fresh and saltwater. It promotes healthier skin, aids weight loss, and may improve heart health and brain functioning.
Fun Facts About Shrimps
- Shrimps have multiple pairs of legs.
- Shrimp are omnivores.
- They can produce thousands of eggs.
- Many shrimp can live for 1-6 years.
- They clean fish.
- Humans have eaten shrimp since 600 AD.
- There are more than 2000 shrimp species.
Shrimp Nutrition Facts
When you look at prawn nutrition facts, it is strong in protein, low in calories, and rich in vitamins and minerals such as niacin and selenium. It’s also worth noting that prawns are one of the highest cholesterol-containing foods in the world.
Four to five shrimp contain more than 150 milligrams of cholesterol, which is half of your daily recommended intake, however, studies show that moderate shrimp consumption has no harmful influence on cholesterol levels.
Shrimps are also a good source of iodine, selenium, and vitamins A, D, E, B1, B2, and B3. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid.
Your average 3-ounce serving of shrimp consists of the following:
If you’re looking for a nutritious, low-calorie meal, shrimp might just be your answer.
Health Benefits Of Shrimps
Shrimps have a great nutritional profile and provide numerous health benefits. The benefits range from improving heart health to providing a significant supply of protein. There is so much to be gained from adding prawns to your diet. The following are some of the most important health advantages of this excellent seafood.
Good For Heart Health
Shrimps contain anti-inflammatory eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are omega-3 fatty acids. According to studies published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, increasing your omega-3 consumption can considerably reduce your risk of heart disease.
Another study in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that shrimp intake was positively associated with improved lipid panels, according to registered dietitian nutritionist Aubrey Redd, proprietor of Aubrey Redd Nutrition in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Further, eating prawns is associated with a lower risk of heart disease than non-shrimp eaters.
Good For Skin And Hair
Free radicals are produced when exposed to the sun’s UV radiation, which can accelerate the aging process. Studies show that astaxanthin (a powerful antioxidant found in shrimp) reduces cell damage caused by free radicals. Furthermore, astaxanthin boosts the body’s antioxidant defense system. Shrimps also contain trehalose, a sugar that shields the skin and hair from UV rays.
May Boost Cognitive Health
Astaxanthin, an antioxidant present in shrimp, has been shown to have numerous health advantages. This antioxidant has several advantages, including lowering the risk of cardiovascular and neurological disorders, as well as assisting with the management of other diseases.
May Help With Gastrointestinal Health
Astaxanthin present in shrimp has an antibacterial effect against H. pylori, a bacteria that causes stomach illnesses. The pathogen may affect stomach and intestinal tissue. This was shown in rats, where oral administration of astaxanthin protected against ethanol-induced stomach injuries.
May Help With Weight Loss
Shrimp are low in calories and have no carbohydrates. Furthermore, their zinc presence may increase leptin levels in the body, which may help avoid overeating. Leptin is a hormone that regulates fat and energy storage and consumption throughout the body while also improving the immune system. Shrimps are also high in iodine, which can help regulate body weight by interacting with the thyroid, a hormone that is critical for metabolism and body weight.
Overall, prawns are really helpful for your health, especially if you are attempting to lose weight. The low calorie, low carbohydrate, and high protein content make it an ideal snack for dieting.
Possible Side Effects Of Shrimps
May Cause Allergic Reactions
Tropomyosin, a shrimp muscle protein, is believed to cause allergic reactions in many individuals. The most common symptoms are itching in the mouth and throat, as well as lip swelling.
High In Cholesterol
One of the primary concerns people have about eating shrimp is that it is high in cholesterol. Those concerned about their heart health or blood pressure may avoid eating prawns due to the high dietary cholesterol and saturated fat content; however, this shouldn’t discourage anyone from eating shrimp.
Also Read:
How To Add Shrimps To Your Diet: Recipes
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp extra-large
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 7 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt or ¼ teaspoon of any other salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 medium lemon juiced
- 2 tablespoons parsley chopped
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes, or until it foams.
- Add the garlic cloves. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
- Add the shrimp. Season them with salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until the shrimps are pink and opaque and the garlic has browned about 4 minutes.
- Turn off the heat, then stir in the lemon juice to coat.
- Transfer the shrimp to plates and sprinkle with the remaining pan juices.
- Serve immediately and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients:
- 500g shrimp
- 250g angel hair pasta
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 3/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons salt
- Water
Instructions:
- Bring salted water to a boil in a big pot.
- Add the pasta and simmer until al dente.
- Discard the water.
- Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat, then add the shrimp and garlic.
- Stir continuously for 3–5 minutes.
- Add wine and pepper.
- Allow it to boil for 30 seconds with constant stirring.
- Mix shrimp and pasta in a bowl.
- Garnish with cheese and parsley.
The Bottom Line
Shrimp is a popular seafood option because of its culinary versatility and tasty meat. It is a low-calorie food high in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive substances like as astaxanthin. However, excessive consumption is not good for your health. Seek medical attention if you develop any side effects.
FAQs
Is shrimp good for your liver?
Yes. A study found that a shrimp-rich diet lowers liver cholesterol levels and increases steroid excretion due to the presence of good lipids.
Is shrimp good for your digestive system?
There is no scientific evidence that eating prawns would benefit your digestive system.
Are shrimps high in salt?
Yes. Fresh shrimps contain approximately 111 mg of sodium per 100 g serving. Canned shrimp may contain more salt since it absorbs it from the brine.
Is shrimp good for blood flow?
Maybe. Shrimp includes helpful proteins and antioxidants that protect blood capillaries from damage. Shrimp may also help lower high blood pressure.
References:
- Astaxanthin for the Food Industry – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34063189/
- Elliot, B. Is Shrimp Healthy? Nution, Calories, and More.