It’s a good thing shrimp is one of America’s most popular seafood choices.
Shrimp is popular because of its tasty flavor, quick cooking time, and impressive nutrients.
Theres no shortage of things to love about shrimps hearty health benefits, either.
Photo:Xsandra/Getty Images
That’s why we caught up with an expert to learn more about the health benefits of shrimp.
Pass the cocktail sauce as we dive into this shrimp nutrition 101.
Here’s a look at what’s inside 3 ounces (or about 85 grams) of raw shrimp.
Greg DuPree
This helps maintain the integrity of the immune cells so they can more effectively defend the body against infections.
Meanwhile, zinc minimizes inflammation by targeting free radicals.
Astaxanthin reduces inflammation because its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Antonis Achilleos
Astaxanthin’s unique molecular structure makes it antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic (prevents cell death).
These properties make astaxanthin beneficial in preventing and treating various eye diseases.
It works by interacting with multiple metabolic pathways in the body, which helps restore balance in the cells.
Still, more long-term clinical trials are necessary to determine the best dosage and method of delivery of astaxanthin.
For one, shrimp is one of the most common allergens, alongside other shellfish.
There is also some potential for contamination in shrimp with antibiotics, microplastics, and mercury.
Greg DuPree
Sustainability labels are always good signs, while super-low price points are typically bad ones.
Resources likeMonterey Bay Aquarium Seafood WatchandGlobal Seafood Alliancewill provide you with super helpful information for finding virtuous shrimp sources.
Here are some of our favorite shrimp recipes to try for yourself.
Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Butter
Greg DuPree
Whip up this shrimp pasta in under 30 minutes.
We recommend a wide, flat noodle with rippled edges for this one.
This shrimp stir-fry with noodles comes together quickly.
Japanese-Style Shrimp Salad
Don’t just eat a boring, bland salad.
Plop shrimp in it to add protein and flavor.
This crunchy romaine and cucumber salad mixes juicy shrimp with a creamy soy-mayo dressing.
Better yet, you’re able to put it together in just 15 minutes.
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