Shrimp Nutrition

When one thinks of shrimp, nutrition is not generally the first thing that comes to mind. Considered to be a sort of delicacy, this shellfish actually possesses a variety of health and nutritional benefits. Though they are small in size, shrimp are enormous in the key vitamins and nutrients each one contains.

Those looking for an alternative to other meats, but who desire high amounts of protein, need look no further than shrimp. Nutrition offered in these tiny, but powerful crustaceans rival most other meats, while remaining low in saturated fat and calories. The following is a brief sampling of the nutritional benefits offered in shrimp:

• Magnesium
• Copper
• Zinc
• Vitamin B3
• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin D
• Phosphorus
• Iron
• Protein
• Tryptophan
• Selenium
• Omega 3 fatty acids

Shrimp is admittedly high in cholesterol. Studies on shrimp nutrition have revealed that its consumption results in elevated LDL (bad cholesterol) levels, but, at the same time, raises HDL (good cholesterol) levels even higher, which actually serves to counteract any possible adverse health effects.

Other health benefits contained in shrimp include:

• Support of good heart health (by keeping homocysteine levels low)

• Helps in the regulation of heart rhythms

• Helps in the control of high blood pressure

• Helps in the avoidance of high blood pressure

• Provides increased protection against various forms of cancer (due to selenium and Omega 3 fatty acids contained in shrimp nutrition)

• Protects against Alzheimer's Disease

• May help relieve symptoms of depression

Despite its amazing health benefits, those with a history of food allergies are advised to avoid shrimp pending the advice of a qualified health professional. Individuals who discover an allergy to shellfish typically experience the following symptoms:

• Breathing difficulties
• Skin irritations (hives, rash, itching, etc.)
• Inflammation of the throat, tongue, lips or nasal passages
• A tingling sensation, particularly in the face and mouth
• A lightheaded or dizzy feeling

Shrimp nutrition facts show that it tends to be high in purines, which contribute to the development of gout and kidney stones. Persons with a sensitivity to purines should significantly limit or outright avoid shrimp consumption.

Shrimp with an ammonia smell or those with discolored shells should never be eaten, as each is a sign of spoiling, which can lead to serious health trauma if consumed.

When possible, shrimp should only be purchased when it is fresh and has yet to be frozen. However, when frozen shrimp is all that is available, consumers should be careful to spot discolorations in the flesh of the shrimp, which may be a sign of freezer burn.

Overall, due to its high vitamin and mineral content, shrimp nutrition is recommended for those who are able to enjoy its beneficial health support. Providing more than 80 different nutrients, as much as 28.2 percent of the daily requirement for B12 and as much as 14.8 percent of the daily recommendation for protective fats, shrimp nutrition facts place this food source on the high end of the list of the earth's healthiest natural foods.