Seafood is not only one of the world’s most beloved food commodities but is also the largest traded food commodity in the world. Millions of people worldwide rely on seafood as a major food source because of its wide availability, great taste, and range of health benefits. The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fatty fish a week. This might not sound like a lot, but apparently, only 10% of us consume that amount.
If you are looking to get more healthy seafood into your diet but don’t know which are the best types for your health, keep reading to find our guide to the top 7 healthiest types of seafood.
1. Shrimp
One of the best ways to get more seafood into your diet is by choosing quick and simple seafood to cook, and you can’t get much quicker or easier to cook than shrimp. Make sure you give them a good clean, and then you are ready to turn them into a delicious shrimp dish for the whole family.
Shrimp are very low in calories, with each three-ounce serving containing just 84 calories. Your three-ounce serving of shrimp also contains 20 grams of protein and high quantities of iron, zinc, and omega-3s.
2. Crab
Crab is generally low in fat and calories, with each three-ounce portion of crab meat containing anywhere between 80 and 100 calories. Each portion of crab meat contains 16-20 grams of protein and 350-400 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for health benefits.
3. Scallops
Scallops are one of our favorite types of seafood to enjoy. They are quick and easy to cook and they are delicious in flavor, low in calories, and have a high nutrient value.
Each three-ounce serving of scallops contains less than 100 calories, 12 grams of protein, and around 20 milligrams of choline, which is a brain-boosting nutrient that can help improve your memory, heart health, metabolism, and much more.
4. Oysters
You might not eat oysters on the daily menu due to a higher price than your average seafood, but they are definitely a treat you should start to enjoy with more frequency, thanks to their health benefits.
Oysters can be eaten raw or cooked and are one of the most nutrient-dense seafood out there. Each delicious oyster is packed with plenty of copper, B vitamins, zinc, and vitamin D. So treat yourself to some oysters and know you’re doing good for your body.
5. Octopus
The sight of those recognizable tentacles may not be for everyone, but octopus is one of the most popular types of seafood across the world. Though it may be daunting to cook, the health benefits are worth it.
Octopus is a low-calorie, high protein, and nutrient-dense seafood that contains significant amounts of vitamin B-12, iron, and selenium, which has been found to possibly help reduce your risk of certain cancers and even reduce your risk of heart disease.
6. Clams
These tasty mollusks are delicious on their own or in a variety of soups or stews — but even better than their delicate salty flavor is their nutritional value. As well as being full of a wide range of vitamins they provide an excellent source of vitamin B-12.
Vitamin B-12 is involved in the production of red blood cells and the oxygen that transports around your body. B-12 has also been proven to help with digestion and controls stress levels.
7. Mussels
Last but not least, mussels are another mollusk that is an excellent source of B-vitamins, omega-3, and manganese. Mussels are delicious seafood that can be served by themselves or with pasta, rice, or a range of sides.
Although mussels can take a little while to prepare, they are surprisingly simple to cook. This means you can enjoy a simple seafood recipe that is also helping you in your goal to maintain a balanced diet.
Just because it is healthy doesn’t mean that it has to be boring. Add more quality seafood to your diet, enjoy delicious food full of vital vitamins, and lead the healthier lifestyle you have always wanted.
*collaborative post
