7 Health Benefits of Prawns for a Stronger Body and Mind

Prawns, often celebrated for their delectable taste, pack a powerful punch when it comes to health benefits.

These succulent seafood delights are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a treasure trove of essential nutrients.

Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, prawns can play a significant role in a balanced diet, offering everything from heart health to improved metabolism.

Including prawns into meals can elevate nutritional value while providing a low-calorie option for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

With their unique blend of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, prawns contribute to overall well-being.

Discovering the myriad health benefits of this seafood favorite can inspire a culinary journey that nourishes both body and soul.

1. High Source of Vitamin B12

Prawns serve as an exceptional source of Vitamin B12, which plays a vital role in maintaining health. Individuals who experience a deficiency in Vitamin B12 may suffer from symptoms like weakness, fatigue, and depression.

Long-term deficits can lead to more serious issues, including brain damage. Including prawns into one’s diet can help ensure adequate Vitamin B12 intake, supporting overall well-being.

Regular consumption of this nutrient-rich seafood assists in preventing health complications related to B12 deficiency, promoting a more robust body and mind.

2. Supports Muscle Growth

Prawns help build muscles due to their impressive protein content. A 100 g serving of prawns contains approximately 24 g of protein, making it an exceptional option for muscle repair and growth.

Also, this seafood is low in calories, with just 115 calories and 1.72 g of fat, which is beneficial for those looking to manage their weight while gaining muscle.

A regular intake of prawns can also provide essential minerals like zinc and iodine, both linked to improved muscle recovery and overall performance. Including prawns into meals supports not only muscle growth but also a balanced nutrition plan.

3. Aids in Cancer Prevention

Prawns are rich in selenium, a mineral known for its cancer-fighting properties. Studies indicate that selenium helps prevent the growth of cancer cells, providing a natural defense against various cancers.

Including prawns into the diet can significantly boost antioxidant levels, further supporting the body’s ability to combat oxidative stress and inflammation linked to cancer development.

Also, their nutrient profile enhances overall health, making prawns an excellent choice for those looking to lower their cancer risk.

4. Promotes Youthful Appearance

Prawns can greatly enhance skin health thanks to their impressive Vitamin E content. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting skin cells from damage and supporting overall skin vitality.

Including prawns into your diet regularly can help restore youthfulness, making the skin look fresh and rejuvenated.

Also, the antioxidants found in prawns combat oxidative stress, a significant factor in aging. With the combined benefits of these nutrients, prawns are a delicious option for anyone wanting to maintain a youthful glow.

5. Boosts Immune Health

Prawns significantly enhance immune health thanks to their high zinc content. Zinc plays a crucial role in the functioning of immune cells, promoting stronger defenses against infections.

Regular consumption of prawns can notably improve the body’s ability to fight off illnesses. Including a serving of prawns into meals not only supports your immune system but also provides a delicious source of nutrition.

With each bite, individuals can boost their overall health and resilience, making prawns an essential addition to a balanced diet.

6. Combats Alzheimer’s Disease

Eating prawns can help in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. These seafood options are rich in fatty acids, which play a protective role for the brain.

Consuming prawns regularly may aid in reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, a severe condition affecting millions.

Including prawns into meals not only benefits brain health but also contributes to overall well-being. Individuals who prioritize prawns in their diet may experience additional benefits for heart health, as these crustaceans support cardiovascular wellness too.

Regular inclusion of prawns can thus be a strategic choice for those looking to protect their mental faculties as they age.

7. Strengthens Bones

Prawns play a crucial role in building strong bones. They are rich in calcium, an essential mineral that enhances bone structure and strength.

Regularly consuming prawns provides the calcium that growing teens need most. A serving of prawns can significantly contribute to daily calcium requirements, making it an excellent dietary choice for bone health.

Including prawns into meals can lead to stronger teeth as well. It’s a tasty way to ensure adequate calcium intake and promote overall skeletal health.

Health Risks of Eating Prawns

Prawns are a popular seafood delicacy enjoyed worldwide for their taste and nutritional value, being high in protein and low in calories.

However, consuming prawns also poses certain health risks, which are important to understand to make informed dietary choices.

Allergic Reactions

One of the most common risks associated with eating prawns is the potential for allergic reactions. Shellfish, including prawns, are among the top food allergens.

Symptoms of a shellfish allergy can range from mild, such as hives and itching, to severe, including difficulty breathing, swelling, and even anaphylaxis a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.

High Cholesterol Levels

Prawns contain relatively high levels of dietary cholesterol. While moderate consumption is unlikely to cause harm for most individuals, people with pre-existing conditions such as hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol) or heart disease should limit their intake, as excessive consumption may contribute to increased LDL cholesterol levels, which is harmful to cardiovascular health.

Contamination with Heavy Metals

Prawns, particularly those sourced from polluted waters, may accumulate heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, or cadmium.

Long-term exposure to these contaminants through seafood consumption can lead to neurological, kidney, or other health problems.

Risk of Bacterial and Viral Infections

Improper handling, storage, or cooking of prawns can lead to foodborne illnesses. Prawns may carry bacteria like Vibrio species, which can cause gastroenteritis or severe infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Consuming undercooked or raw prawns also increases the risk of viral infections, such as norovirus and hepatitis A.

High Sodium Content

Processed or frozen prawns often have added sodium as part of the preservation process. Consuming high-sodium foods can contribute to elevated blood pressure, increasing the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease, particularly in individuals with salt sensitivity.

Adverse Effects of Antibiotic Use in Farmed Prawns

Farmed prawns are often treated with antibiotics to prevent disease outbreaks in aquaculture systems.

However, improper use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic residues in the prawns, which may contribute to antibiotic resistance in humans over time.

Potential for Digestive Issues

Some individuals may find prawns difficult to digest due to their high protein content and exoskeleton (if consumed whole).

Overeating prawns may lead to digestive discomfort, including bloating or indigestion. Removing the shells and properly chewing the meat can help alleviate these issues.

Allergy Cross-Reactivity

People allergic to other types of seafood or shellfish may also react to prawns due to cross-reactivity between similar proteins.

Symptoms can occur even if they have not consumed prawns directly but have been exposed to cross-contamination in shared cooking environments.