The Various Health Benefits and Risks of Eating Shrimp - Shrimp is one of the most popular types of seafood. Not only does it offer a delicious taste, but shrimp also provides numerous health benefits. However, for some individuals, consuming shrimp can pose certain health risks.
When consumed in moderation, shrimp can be highly beneficial to your health, including aiding in the formation of new cells in the body. However, excessive consumption of shrimp can lead to various health issues, such as increased cholesterol levels in the blood.
Nutritional Content and Health Benefits of Eating Shrimp
Shrimp is a nutrient-rich seafood. A serving of 85 grams of cooked shrimp contains about 84 calories and 20 grams of protein. Additionally, shrimp is a good source of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
Shrimp also contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants, and iodine, which are all beneficial for the body. Interestingly, shrimp is low in fat. Moreover, shrimp shells can be processed into chitosan, a substance with various health benefits, and other parts like the head are also packed with nutrients.
The abundant nutrients in shrimp contribute to various health benefits, such as:
1. Aids in Cell and Tissue Formation
- Shrimp is rich in protein, which is essential for the formation of new cells and tissues in the body. Protein in shrimp is also required for the production of various enzymes and hormones.
2. Supports Thyroid Hormone Production
- Besides protein, shrimp is also high in iodine, a critical component for thyroid hormone production. These hormones play a significant role in the body's metabolic processes. Insufficient iodine intake can lead to conditions like goiter and infertility.
3. Maintains Bone and Dental Health
- The calcium found in shrimp helps support strong bones and teeth. Additionally, calcium helps muscle function, boosts hormone production, and accelerates blood clotting.
4. Promotes Heart Health
- Like fish, shrimp is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These nutrients are crucial in supporting heart health.
Health Risks of Eating Shrimp to Be Aware Of
Despite its numerous benefits, consuming shrimp also carries risks that you should be cautious of:
1. Allergic Reactions
- If you have a seafood allergy, it's best to avoid shrimp, as it can trigger allergic reactions. Symptoms may include itchy skin, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, or swelling around the face and mouth. Immediate treatment is crucial to prevent severe reactions like anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening.
2. Choking Hazard
- Eating shrimp can pose a choking hazard, especially if you're not careful. The shell and tail of the shrimp can cause injury and block the airway. To prevent this, make sure the shrimp you consume is properly cleaned of these parts.
3. Food Poisoning
- Food poisoning can occur if shrimp is not prepared and cooked correctly. Undercooked or contaminated shrimp may contain bacteria that can lead to food poisoning, with symptoms like headaches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Since symptoms may not appear immediately, many people might not realize they have food poisoning.
4. High Cholesterol
- Another concern with eating shrimp is its potential to increase blood cholesterol levels. A small serving of shrimp contains about 200 mg of cholesterol, exceeding the recommended daily intake. High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, so it's important to consume shrimp in moderation.
Eating shrimp offers numerous health benefits, but it’s important not to overindulge. For those with seafood allergies, caution is advised when consuming shrimp. If you experience any allergic reactions, seek medical attention promptly.
References:
- Lopata, A. L., Kleine-Tebbe, J., & Kamath, S. D. (2016). Allergens and Molecular Diagnostics of Shellfish Allergy: Part 22 of the Series Molecular Allergology. Allergo Journal International, 25(7), 210–218.
- United States Department of Agriculture – USDA (2018). Crustaceans, Shrimp, Cooked.
- National Institute of Health (2019). U.S. National Library of Medicine. Genetic Home Reference. What Are Proteins and What Do They Do?
- National Health Services (2018). What Should I Do If Someone is Choking?
- Mayo Clinic (2017). Diseases & Conditions. Food Poisoning.
- Sass, C. Health (2019). 7 Things You Should Know About Shrimp.
- Worth, T. Health (2011). Why Calcium Is Good for Your Body.
- Elliot, B. Healthline (2018). Is Shrimp Healthy? Nutrition, Calories and More.
- Saman, S. Healthline (2017). What’s the Connection Between Shrimp, Cholesterol, and Heart Health?
- WebMD. Vitamins & Supplements. Iodine.
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