Elevate your health by eating more shellfish

When it comes to healthy eating, the underwater world is your oyster. It's not just fish that benefit your body: shrimp, lobsters, and their crabby and clammy friends count too. We'll run through the benefits of adding shellfish to your diet.

• All shellfish are rich in protein and low in calories.
• Shrimp and lobster are almost completely devoid of saturated fat, and they're good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These are the same heart-friendly fats found in fatty fish and renowned for their ability to reduce the risk of heart disease.
• An average serving of shellfish has about one-third of the cholesterol found in one egg, so moderate consumption generally isn't a problem.
• Lobster is a particularly rich source of a mineral called vanadium, which some studies suggest may enhance insulin's effect in the body, helping to keep an anchor on blood sugar.
• Most shellfish are rich in copper and zinc, which are both important for your immune system to function optimally. They also pack an astounding amount of vitamin B12, which may help ward off depression, heart disease, and even Alzheimer's. They also contain selenium, an anti-cancer mineral.
• Clams are stuffed with sterols, a powerful cholesterol-lowering compound.

Because shellfish are almost entirely devoid of carbohydrates, their glycemic load is virtually zero. All shellfish are low in saturated fat, but different types offer slightly different nutritional advantages.

• Clams are an excellent source of iron and potassium.
• All types of crab contains a hefty amount of zinc, while blue crab also provides calcium and Dungeness crab offers extra potassium.
• Lobster is an excellent source of vitamin B12 and a good source of zinc.
• Mussels can fight off anemia because they're a good source of iron.
• Oysters contain zinc and are a good source of iron and selenium.
• Shrimp offer a fair amount of various vitamins and minerals and also contain some omega-3 fatty acids.

As you read the long list of nutrients and health benefits provided by shellfish, it's easy to see why it's a good idea to incorporate more of them into your diet. Many kinds of shellfish possess a relatively bland taste, which makes them the perfect canvas with which to try new recipes, sauces, and spice blends. Get creative and enjoy!