Top 5 Nutritious Shellfish to Boost Your Health: A Buyer's Guide

There are many types of shellfish in the world. Some are found all across the world, while some are endemic to a particular part of the world. Depending on their type, shellfish are considered to be either a staple food consumed regularly or a delicacy that’s consumed once in a blue moon. Shellfish is always packed with nutrients that help your body fuel up for the present day and the next. Here are 5 different shellfish that are delicious and healthy all at the same time.

• Crabs - A tasty, nutritious, and wholesome meal that is best enjoyed as a group, crabs are an amazing source of nutrients that keep your body running in top condition. Crab is rich in vitamin B12, which helps in the production of red blood cells in your body. Along with this, various minerals like phosphorus, selenium, and copper, impart a number of benefits like increased bone health and an improved immune system. This comes together with a whopping 20 grams of protein per serving of the shellfish.

• Shrimp - Coming to one of the world’s most widely-consumed shellfish, shrimps are an integral part of a lot of people’s diets around the world. When it comes to nutritional content, it’s safe to say that shrimps are not lacking in that aspect. Just like crabs, shrimps are also rich in selenium and hence, keep the immune system working like clockwork. With good levels of Iodine, this shellfish helps promote proper thyroid function as well. 

• Mussels - Not as widely consumed as shrimps are, but that doesn’t mean mussels are any less delicious and nutritious. When it comes to macronutrients, mussels have 18 grams of protein present in a 3-ounce serving. Minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium are always found in mussels, along with Vitamin B12, which helps improve nerve function. 

• Lobster - Highly prized for its unique taste but also with a price tag that’s a little bit on the higher side, lobsters are a unique dish that is best enjoyed once in a blue moon. However, this doesn’t mean that they’re any less nutritious than the other shellfish on this list. In fact, with 23 grams of protein, it gives you that important protein boost that your body needs to maintain strength and stability. With other vitamins and minerals like B12, selenium, and copper, it’s a complete dish!

• Oysters - Just like lobsters, oysters are also prized shellfish with a unique flavour. Their briny taste has attracted seafood lovers from across the globe, and their nutritional profile is just as good as its taste. An excellent source of minerals like iron, copper, and zinc, along with vitamin B12, there’s no going wrong with oysters!