Answering The Question: Is Shrimp Healthy?
While the demand for this seafood has made it the second most popular choice, there is one question that weighs on many people’s mind: is shrimp healthy? There has been a great deal of controversy as to whether or not this small crustacean is a benefit or a threat to health.
Found widely around the world, shrimp are a vital food source for many creatures besides humans. There are numerous varieties of shrimp, and they can be found in either fresh water or salt water. They can range in size from between under ½ inch long to 12 inches long, depending on the variety and their habitat. Though several types of shrimp are eaten by humans, the most common types that find their way to the plates of Americans are the brown, pink, white and red varieties; so named because of the color of their shells. Rock shrimp are also popular for eating. The meat of the crustacean when cooked becomes firm and white to pinkish white; considered to have a sweet, mild taste that is compatible with many forms of cooking.
This delicious flavor and delicate texture has made the shrimp second only to tuna fish in popularity as seafood. A 3 oz. serving that has been steamed is only 84 calories with only 1 gram of total fat and a whopping 18 grams of protein. Based on this information alone, one would think that substituting steamed shrimp for meats that are high in calories and fat would be a great idea. There is another side to the nutritional profile of shrimp, however, that has caused doctors and researchers to ask the question, is shrimp healthy for the majority of people?
While shrimp has many great attributes as a food source, such as being low in saturated fat, a very good source of protein, selenium and vitamin B12 and a good source of iron, zinc, phosphorus and niacin, it also carries a major drawback. One of the biggest threats to our health these days is cholesterol; a waxy substance that lines the arteries, constricts the flow of blood and is either caused by heredity or food items high in cholesterol. Shrimp, unfortunately, has extremely high levels of cholesterol; approximately 165mg per three ounce serving. Considering that the recommended intake of cholesterol for an entire day is less than 300mg, it is easy to see why medical professionals would be concerned about shrimp in the diet.
However, as with most foods that are deemed to be unhealthy, anything can be done in moderation for most individuals. The occasional meal of shrimp, even in those who may have a predisposition for cholesterol issues, may not be as detrimental as once thought. The key is in how much is consumed and how the shrimp is prepared. When the urge strikes for a meal of shrimp, it is important that it be served steamed, not deep fried with a heavy breading or served with thick sauces. Portion sizes must also be considered; when a meal that already contains 165mg of cholesterol is eaten, the remaining meals on that day should be extremely low in cholesterol. In other words, let a meal of this simply prepared seafood be an occasional indulgence rather than a frequent meal in order to say “yes” to the question “is shrimp healthy?”
Anything in moderation can be enjoyed, and shrimp is no exception. Due to the low saturated fat, high protein content and beneficial vitamins that the crustacean possesses, scientists and doctors alike are now modifying their thoughts on the healthy attributes of shrimp. It is now believed to be a beneficial part of a low fat diet when consumed in moderation and without frying or sauces; giving the shrimp a new, healthier look.