6 Top Nutritional Benefits of Lobsters You Should Know

Lobsters are a good catch for seafood lovers. Though pricey, this shellfish is considered a delicacy that’s best cooked alive. Aside from its delicious taste, lobsters have surprising health benefits that give you more good reasons to eat them. According to the USDA, approximately 145 grams or one cup of cooked lobster contains only 129 calories, with no carbohydrates, 1 gram of fat and a good amount of protein at 28 grams. It can supply 2% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin A and iron, and 7% of calcium.

1. Good Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are good fats that can fight anxiety and depression, improve eye health, promote brain health and reduce risks of heart diseases, and ADHD in children. Three ounces of wild lobster provide 200 to 500 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids. Northern lobsters, or the more common ones contain less in the same portion.

2. Thyroid Protection

Lobsters are excellent sources of selenium, a mineral that aids in the proper functioning of the thyroid. A study showed that adding selenium to the diet of people with thyroid problems resulted in benefits. The mineral can regulate hormone synthesis, support thyroxin conversion, and protect thyroid tissues.

3. Bone Strength

Lobsters are good sources of calcium and phosphorus. These minerals are vital for bone strength, helping prevent osteoporosis and other bone problems.

4. Lean Protein Source

The right amount of protein in the body can offer huge health benefits. You need it if you want to lose weight, bulk up or boost energy. Lean protein is better, to cut down on unnecessary fat, which is what makes lobsters helpful. Lobster can help you build new cells, repair damaged tissues and boost your energy.

5. Improved Cognition

Lobsters have minerals and B-vitamins for proper functioning of the nervous system. They also have a good amount of choline, which helps increase neurotransmitter production, improving brain function and reducing chances of getting degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s.

6. Heart Health

Since lobster contains good fats, it can prevent inflammation and help regulate cholesterol in your body. Lobsters may have cholesterol, but cholesterol in foods does not necessarily lead to harmful cholesterol levels in the body. Saturated fat is more directly responsible.

When eaten in moderation, lobsters can be a healthy source of nutrients. However, they may contain high amounts of sodium. Try to eat lobster sparingly if you are suffering from heart disease or high blood pressure. It’s also good to prepare it the healthier way, with less salt, oil or butter. When ordering from restaurants, choose baked, roasted or grilled lobsters. When you have a craving for lobster, why not prepare it yourself? You can easily find recipes on the internet and cook it the way you want it. Make sure to buy lobster online only from the best suppliers.