Appetizers at most restaurants are so full of calories and fat that they can easily be the most unhealthy portion of the meal – with the possible exception of dessert. It’s not unusual for a restaurant appetizer to have upwards of five hundred calories and an ungodly amount of fat. Fortunately, there’s one seafood appetizer you can enjoy without guilt – shrimp cocktail. This popular meal starter isn’t deep fried or loaded with unhealthy fats. What are the health benefits of shrimp cocktail?
Health Benefits of Shrimp Cocktail: It’s Heart Healthy
Don’t let the cholesterol in shrimp fool you. When it comes to heart health, saturated fat is more important than cholesterol – and shrimp is very low in saturated fat. Shrimp is a source of good fat – in the form of omega-3’s which helps to reduce triglyceride levels and lower the risk of a heart attack. Although eating shrimp too frequently could slightly raise LDL cholesterol levels, it also increases levels of HDL – the good cholesterol which improves the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol which is a positive for heart health. The omega-3’s found in shrimp also have anti-inflammatory effects which are not only good for the heart, but may reduce the symptoms of diseases such as arthritis.
Health Benefits of Shrimp Cocktail: It’s Waistline Friendly
Shrimp is remarkably low in calories – with four large shrimp having only twenty-two total. Plus, the protein content of shrimp (almost eighteen grams in four of them) is great for building lean body mass when combined with an exercise program. Foods that are high in protein such as shrimp are also more satisfying – so there’s less risk of overeating. Shrimp is clean eating at its best.
Shrimp is rich in vitamin B12 and iron – both of which build healthy blood cells. Vitamin B12 is important in another regard. A deficiency can lead to permanent neurological damage. Shrimp is also one of the best sources of the trace mineral selenium that some studies show could reduce the risk of cancer – although the verdict is still out on that. It’s best to get selenium from natural sources such as shrimp since the high levels found in supplements can be toxic. Shrimp is also high in zinc which is important for fertility and a healthy immune system.
Health Benefits of Shrimp Cocktail: What about the Cocktail Sauce?
It’s best to go light on the cocktail sauce if you’re eating shrimp cocktail at a restaurant since it can be high in sodium and sugar. Cocktail sauce does have some redeeming value though. Since it’s made with ketchup, it contains lycopenes – a carotenoid that’s heart healthy.
Health Benefits of Shrimp Cocktail: The Bottom Line?
Next time you order an appetizer, skip the deep fried cheese sticks and order a tasty shrimp cocktail instead.
