Shrimp is known for its tender texture and mild flavor, which blends seamlessly with various spices and ingredients in both Eastern and international cuisines. It can also be prepared in a variety of ways, such as grilling, frying, or adding it to rice dishes, pasta, and salads.
Shrimp is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many dishes, including rice, pasta, and salads. According to the National Agriculture in the Classroom website, a 3-ounce serving of shrimp (approximately 85 grams) contains:
84 calories
0.2 grams of carbohydrates
20.4 grams of protein
0.2 grams of fat
94.4 milligrams of sodium
Shrimp is particularly known for being:
Low in saturated fat
A source of protein
A source of phosphorus
A source of vitamin B-12
The National Agriculture in the Classroom website also explains that shrimp offers numerous health benefits, including:
Supporting heart health
Shrimp is a good source of choline and is low in saturated fat, which contributes positively to improved heart health.
May benefit brain health
Research suggests that the choline in shrimp helps support cognitive function.
Strengthens Bones
Shrimp contains important minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and selenium, which play a vital role in maintaining bone strength.
Supports Weight Loss
Protein-rich foods like shrimp help increase satiety and support muscle mass maintenance during weight loss efforts.
The Cleveland Clinic website in the US added that the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in shrimp may contribute to boosting the immune system.
When Does Your Immune System Attack Your Thyroid Gland?
What Are Its Risks?
Despite its numerous benefits, shrimp is not without some health risks, most notably:
It May Cause Gout
Shrimp contains a high percentage of purine compounds, which the body converts into uric acid, a common trigger for gout attacks.
Therefore, people with gout are advised to consume it in moderation and consult their doctor before including it in their diet.
Shellfish Allergy
Shrimp is one of the most common food allergens. It should be avoided completely if symptoms such as nasal congestion, itching, swollen lips, or difficulty breathing appear.
You may also be interested in:
To keep our oceans healthy... How can we consume seafood responsibly?
Tips for choosing and cooking shrimp
The Cleveland Clinic website in the United States published some guidelines to consider before eating shrimp, including:
It should be light in color, almost translucent, and free of black spots.
A strong or ammonia-like odor indicates that this type of seafood may be spoiled.
Beware of freezer burn in frozen shrimp, as it reduces the quality of the meat.