Are Shellfish High in Cholesterol?
Shellfish like shrimp, oysters, mussels, clams, lobster, and crabs all have tons of great nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids that confer great health benefits. However, you may have also heard that shellfish are high in cholesterol, making them a risk to your cardiovascular health. Is there any truth to this?
Cholesterol levels in most shellfish are actually similar to those found in beef, pork, and poultry. Unlike beef, pork, and poultry, shellfish have lower levels of saturated fats, which can help increase the levels of good cholesterol, known as HDL’s, which counteracts the effects of bad cholesterol, known as LDL’s. Not only that, but dietary cholesterol doesn’t raise blood cholesterol levels as much as was previously thought. High caloric intake and consumption of unhealthy saturated and trans fats actually affect blood cholesterol levels much more than dietary cholesterol. Most cholesterol is your body is actually produced by your liver; only 25% of it comes from the food you eat.
So, if you’re concerned about cholesterol in shellfish, know that the levels found in shellfish are comparable to a lot of other animal products that you eat on a regular basis. Eating shellfish can actually help your cardiovascular system because the HDL’s remove harmful lipids that build up on arterial walls. So the next time you’re eating shellfish enjoy both their delicious taste and health benefits!
Catonsville Gourmet: The Best Fresh Seafood in the Baltimore Area
Catonsville Gourmet is the perfect destination for fresh seafood, from crabmeat to rockfish to today’s fresh catch, in the Baltimore area. We offer the freshest seafood, delectable prepared foods, gourmet products and a unique dining experience.
Catonsville Gourmet’s goal is to offer impeccably fresh seafood, angus beef, delectable prepared foods, gourmet products and a unique dining experience close to home.
If you have any questions, please contact Catonsville Gourmet by calling 410-788-0005 or visit our website today! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Pinterest.
Location: 829 Frederick Rd. Catonsville, MD. 21228
Sources
http://goaskalice.columbia.edu/shellfish-cholesterol-content
http://www.med.nyu.edu/content?ChunkIID=14033
http://www.livestrong.com/article/345568-cholesterol-levels-in-shellfish/