The Health Benefits of Crab

Are you getting enough seafood in your diet? Most Americans arent. Despite studies that show the benefits of putting seafood on the dinner table, more families choose to eat red meat or poultry instead. This is unfortunate since seafood is rich in nutrients and, generally, low in calories. One form of seafood thats particularly low in fat and calories is crab. Although crab meat is an important staple in some forms of cuisine such as Chinese food, its not eaten as often in the United States. Maybe it should be. What are the health benefits of crab?

Health benefits of crab: Its very low in calories and fat.

Crab is a calorie counters dream meat. A four ounce serving of crab meat has only 98 calories, and with under two grams of fat per serving, its heart healthy. Despite its low calorie content, crab meat can be a filling and satisfying main course.

Health benefits of crab: Its high in protein and has no carbs

Despite its low calorie and fat content, a serving of crab has a whopping twenty grams of protein. This makes it an excellent high protein alternative for the athlete or body builder whos tired of tuna fish. Its also carb free which makes it a good choice for diabetics.

Health benefits of crab: Its high in omega 3 fatty acids

Crab is a good source of heart healthy omega 3s which help to lower triglycerides and blood pressure along with reducing the risk of heart disease. Omega 3s are also thought to reduce the inflammation, enhance immune function, and even lower the risk of certain types of cancer. Most Americans dont get enough omega 3s in their diet and adding crab meat to the table is a good way to start.

Health benefits of crab: Its low in mercury

One of the big concerns with eating a seafood rich diet is exposure to mercury. The good news is that mid-Atlantic blue crab is very low in mercury, making it a good seafood choice for the whole family. In fact, crab is considered to be on of the safest forms of seafood in terms of mercury levels.

Crab meat is also rich in vitamins and minerals with particularly high levels of vitamin B-12, a vitamin thats critical for healthy nerve function. Its also a good source of the minerals zinc and copper.

Where can you find it? Crab meat is available fresh from most seafood markets, and can be found frozen or in cans from your local supermarket. Either way, youll enjoy the wonderful health benefits that crab has to offer.