Lobster, a type of shellfish that you can enjoy with loaded benefits along with its magnificent flavor. It is not only popular as a luxury food all over, but the health benefits offered also make it distinguished.
If you are fond of seafood, then lobster is a good choice with its unique attributes. Furthermore, eating lobster is more like giving yourself a sweet meat treat. The nutritional profile this food holds offers several health benefits, which is essential to know about.
It is also essential to understand the potential risks caused by lobster, as it is a type of shellfish and some people are highly allergic to seafood.
Let’s explore the qualities of lobster.
Nutrients Offered
Lobster is a great source of protein, and it contains several other minerals and nutrients. A cup of lobster (150 gm) contains:
| Calories | 128 Cal |
| Fat | 1.2 grams |
| Carbohydrate | 0 gm |
| Protein | 27 gm |
| Selenium | 190% |
| Vitamin | Vitamin B12 |
| Zinc | 53% |
- The selenium content is essential for immune strength, and also it acts as an antioxidant protecting the cells.
- Copper and zinc, provided by lobster help in the body’s functioning and immune health.
The other shellfish varieties are shrimp, crab, etc. When compared to lobster, the nutritional values of shrimps and crabs are:
Shrimp
Calories: 307 Cal
Protein: 22 gm
Fat: 16 gm
Cholesterol: 70%
Crab
Calories: 97 Cal
Protein: 21 gm
Fat: 0.8 gm
Cholesterol: 62%
Risks in Lobster
If you are having any kind of shellfish allergies, avoid eating lobster and other seafood. Because eating lobster can cause mild to severe health issues in you.
- The mercury content in lobster makes it unsuitable for pregnant women.
- The main allergic reaction caused by lobster is breathing discomfort.
- A muscle protein known as ‘tropomyosin’ is a major allergen in lobster. It is found in many shellfish varieties.
- Lobsters are high in cholesterol, which makes them unsuitable for people who have diabetes and cholesterol problems. Such people should consume it in a moderate quantity.
It is important to find out your allergen in seafood, especially in shellfish varieties, to avoid causing allergic reactions. The quality of lobster must be checked even if it is cooked or uncooked to avoid any infections. If not properly stored, lobster may get contaminated and lead to health issues.
The only precaution to avoid shellfish or lobster allergies is to avoid consuming it.
What are the Benefits?
Lobsters are the best seafood choice if consumed in the right way and right quantity. There are numerous benefits to it, including:
Lean Protein
Protein helps in muscle growth and maintains the overall health of an individual. The protein benefits provided by lobster is equal to other protein-rich food. It also helps in proper digestion.
Low carbohydrates
If you are concerned about your balanced diet and also have a craving for delicious lobster, this one is for you. Lobsters contain 0 grams of carbohydrates, which makes them suitable for a balanced diet.
Vitamins and Minerals
Lobster is a powerhouse of essential vitamin B12. It helps in brain development and supports the production of red blood cells. Zinc, copper, and phosphorus content helps in maintaining metabolism and energy production.
Omega-3 fatty acids
The omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA are important for brain functioning and heart health. Omega-3 can work effectively to reduce the chances of heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, etc.
Weight management
Since lobsters are low in calories, they can be included in your weight management diet.
Selenium and Thyroid
The selenium present in lobster helps in thyroid function, keeping it healthy, and acts as an antioxidant too.
Impacts on Gut Health
- Protein helps in maintaining a healthy gut line
- Omega-3 fatty acids help to keep a balanced gut bacteria and reduce inflammation.
- Since it does not provide dietary fiber, it can be paired with fiber-rich food to get the benefits and maintain gut health.
Understanding your gut health and practicing a healthy diet can improve the gut functioning. It is important to recognize the allergens that may harm your body and the essential bacterial growth to prevent allergic reactions.
Impacts on Kidney
- Lobsters are rich in protein content, hence it is not a perfect dish for those who have kidney disease. Such people are advised to control their protein intake.
- Sodium content in lobsters is comparatively low, which makes it kidney-friendly.
- You must be careful of the preparation of lobsters, as they may contain more than a limited amount of sodium while adding any other ingredients.
Impacts on Liver Health
- Lobsters, with the high protein and amino acids present in it, support liver health
- Healthy fat contained in it improves liver function
Taurine and Astaxanthin in Lobster
These are the two special components present in lobsters. In most of the seafood available, you can find these compounds, especially taurine, which helps in several body functions and also acts as an antioxidant.
Astaxanthin can be called a natural coloring agent, which gives a pinkish color to seafood. It has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to the special benefits offered by astaxanthin, it is often given as a dietary supplement.
Conclusion
Lobsters are a good source of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, which provide several health benefits to you if consumed in a limited quantity. Like any other food, it can be a part of your balanced diet and prepared according to your taste preferences.
You must be mindful of the preparation style, possible allergic reactions, and your health. To plan a diet accordingly can help you reach your goals with all your favorite seafood varieties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Lobsters are high in cholesterol, and it may affect negatively if a person having high cholesterol eats it without proper consideration.
When compared to lobster, shrimp has low cholesterol in it. But the caloric content is equal for both.
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