Versatile; Filling; Luscious; Delectable; Soul-satisfying; These are but some of the words used to describe the Prince of crustaceans, and it is perhaps for this reason that crab ranks among the most popular seafood selections with consumers today!
There are tens of distinct types of crabs across the world including, spider crabs, snow crabs, pea crabs, mud crabs and flower crabs. Their colour and size can vary greatly. According to some historians, crabs were one of the eatables consumed by coastal cultures hundred of years ago, and today the shellfish is a standout offering on menus around the world – such is the appeal of crabmeat.
And while it’s well-known for its exquisite and versatile flavour, did you know that crabmeat is also amongst the healthiest protein options available?
The nutritional benefits of eating crab are so high in fact that some nutritionists advise eating two servings of the shellfish a week. Here’s everything you need to know about the benefits of crabmeat.
There are numerous health benefits of eating crabmeat. It’s high in Omega-3 fatty acids, as well as copper, zinc and selenium, which are said to help enhance the immune system. These nutrients are crucial for boosting overall health.
What are Omega-3 fatty acids?
Omega-3s are a collective group of essential fatty acids that offer myriad health benefits to your body. Since a human body cannot produce Omega-3 on its own, the requirement has to be fulfilled through a variety of diet sources. Mainly, there exist three types of Omega-3 fatty acids: ALA, EPA, and DHA. Omega-3 fatty acids lower the risks related to cardiovascular disease and reduce the risk of blood clots as they help in preventing blood platelets from getting clumped together.
Additional Health Benefits
Though selenium is abundant in all shellfish it is particularly high in crabmeat. It is an essential component of the human antioxidant defence system, which protects cells and tissues from injury.
Furthermore, crabmeat doesn’t contain saturated fat as found in other proteins. Then there are the many useful minerals such as vitamin B12 and folate.
Phosphorus is the second most abundant mineral in the human body, after calcium, and is an important component of teeth and bones. Fortunately, practically all crabmeat is known to have significant levels of phosphorus.