Shrimp's impact on health and who should avoid them
Photo: Is eating shrimp harmful (freepik.com)
Shrimp are popular seafood and a rich source of protein, but many people fear them, purportedly due to the "harmfulness" of this product.
The material includes data from Nutrients, Food Science and Nutrition websites, among others.
Is eating shrimp unsafe for health? Read in the material.
The material includes data from Nutrients, Food Science and Nutrition websites, and others.
Myths about shrimps
Shrimp contain a lot of cholesterol
Shrimp indeed contain cholesterol, but a serving (85 grams) has the same amount of cholesterol as an egg. Research has shown that cholesterol in foods does not significantly impact our cholesterol levels.
Thus, while an 85-gram portion of shrimp contains 180 milligrams of cholesterol, twice as much as the same portion of ground beef, the saturated fats in it are much less, only 0.4 grams.
The Nutrients journal reported that dietary cholesterol can raise blood cholesterol levels (and the risk of cardiovascular diseases). This is based on the fact that many high-cholesterol foods also contain a lot of saturated fats.
Shrimp contain a lot of pollutants
Like other types of seafood, shrimp can be farmed or caught in the wild. Each type has its risks for our health and the environment.
According to research from Food Science and Nutrition, shrimp, whether farmed or caught in the wild, contain mercury - a chemical substance that can cause serious health problems. These may include cognitive development delays and developmental issues in children, as well as disruptions in brain function and the reproductive system.
Although both types of shrimp contain mercury, the amount is small, and according to the research, there is no significant difference between farm-raised and wild-caught shrimp.
Shrimp are allergenic
Shrimp, along with crabs and lobsters, are known as shellfish. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, approximately seven million people in the United States suffer from shellfish allergies.
Symptoms shellfish allergy
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Abdominal pain
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Wheezing
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Difficulty breathing
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Dizziness
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Swelling of the lips and tongue
The best option for people with shrimp allergies is to avoid anything that may be contaminated with crustaceans, such as fish broths, frying oils in restaurants, and seafood flavorings.
