Shrimp is one of the most commonly consumed types of shellfish. It is quite nutritious and provides high amounts of certain nutrients, such as iodine, that aren’t abundant in many other foods.
On the other hand, shrimp is unhealthy due to its high cholesterol content. Diversity in our diet is important, and overindulging on a certain food is not recommended, so try to consume moderate quantities of anything you eat, including shrimps.
Nutrients per Serving
Shrimp are mostly made up of protein and water. On average, 100 grams of cooked shrimp has:
Calories: 99
Fat: 0.3 grams
Carbs: 0.2 grams
Cholesterol: 189 milligrams
Sodium: 111 milligrams
Protein: 24 grams
If also contains other vitamins and minerals, such as: Phosphorus, Copper, Zinc, Magnesium, Calcium, Potassium, Iron.
Health Benefits
Because they're low in carbs and calories and packed with nutrients, shrimp are an ideal choice if you're trying to shed some pounds.
But be careful how you cook it. If you prepare shrimp in a deep fryer or add it to a creamy sauce, you end up tipping the scale in the wrong direction.
The antioxidants in shrimp are good for your health. These substances can protect your cells against damage. Studies suggest that the antioxidant astaxanthin helps prevent wrinkles and lessens sun damage.
Shrimp also has plenty of selenium. Some studies suggest this mineral prevents certain types of cancer.
Are There Any Risks?
One potential concern is the high amount of cholesterol in shrimp. Experts once held that eating too many foods high in cholesterol was bad for the heart. But modern research shows it's the saturated fat in your diet that raises cholesterol levels in your body, not necessarily the amount of cholesterol in your food. Still, if you're wary of the stuff, moderation is key.
Shellfish, including shrimp, is also the cause of a common and sometimes severe food allergy. Also, avoid shrimp that has an unusual smell to it, try to buy it fresh, or, if you buy it frozen, do not refreeze it.
How to Prepare Shrimp
Shrimp is a versatile food that you can cook in several ways. Healthy methods include: boiling, steaming, grilling, broiling, sautéing, and of course, avoid sauces as side dish.
Sources: Web MD
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