Indulging in grilled, steamed, or drunken prawns has got to be one of the best ways to enjoy fresh seafood in Singapore. Considered one of the healthiest foods in the world, prawns are an excellent source of complete protein, meaning it includes all nine amino acids necessary for the body to maintain health and function.
Way lower in calories than chicken or beef, prawns deliver the same amount of protein as red meat or poultry.
Medical professionals and nutritionists often recommend eating crustaceans and shellfish as part of a healthy diet. Here are 5 lesser-known health benefits of prawns that make them shrimply the best!
1. Helps With Weight Loss
Prawns are loaded with protein yet low in saturated fat. Similar to chicken and beef, 100 grams of prawns contain about 25 grams of protein. However, 100 grams of prawn only has 115 calories, compared to about double that for chicken and triple that for beef.
Prawns also contain high levels of zinc, an essential mineral in maintaining a healthy immune system. Zinc is directly associated with leptin, a hormone that regulates appetite and fat storage. To add the cherry on top, prawns have high levels of iodine, a mineral that controls thyroid hormones and boosts metabolism. All in all, if you’re trying to lose weight, prawns are a great addition to your diet.
2. A Rich Source of Vitamins & Minerals
These little crustaceans are jam-packed with essential vitamins and minerals. 100 grams of prawns contain:
- 11% of your recommended daily intake (RDI) for calcium
- About 15% RDI for iron
- 33% RDI for phosphorus
- 9% RDI for potassium
- About 20% RDI for zinc
- About 25% RDI for selenium
The high levels of vitamin B6, B12 and niacin all work together to help increase energy, put on lean muscle and replenish red blood cells.
3. Builds Strong Muscles & Bones
The generous amount of selenium found in prawns will improve bone strength and durability. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that strengthens teeth, hair and nails, all while fighting free radicals in the body.
Other minerals like calcium, zinc, and phosphorus contribute to building and maintaining strong bones.
In addition, protein is a vital mineral in building muscle with amino acids helping to repair and maintain muscle tissue. A single serving of 100 grams of prawns will deliver about half the recommended daily protein intake. So, if you’re aiming for a toned, muscular body, swapping out protein shakes and chicken breast for prawns once in a while will do you good!
4. Promotes Heart Health
Prawns contain high levels of Omega 3 fatty acids, a well-known nutrient long credited with lowering blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart attacks and contributing to a healthy cardiovascular system.
They are also an excellent energy source and keep the organs, blood vessels and immune system functioning.
5. Potentially Prevents Cancer
We get free radicals from certain sources like industrial chemicals, cigarette smoke, alcohol, and air pollutants. They are almost impossible to avoid, and stay in our bodies. Rich in powerful antioxidants like selenium and vitamin E, prawns can help protect cells from damage and stave off serious diseases. Selenium is also believed to prevent tumour growth and strengthen the immune system.
Get Your Fill of Delicious Prawns at Greenwood Fish Market
Heading to your nearest seafood market in Singapore? Save yourself a trip and order fresh prawns online at Greenwood Fish Market or NTUC!
From Tiger and Jumbo Prawns to Wild Australian King Prawns, there is no better way to get your protein fix and enjoy the wondrous benefits of prawns from our selection of fresh seafood in Singapore!
Skip the trip to the seafood market and buy fresh prawns online and enjoy these delicious, healthy crustaceans in the comfort of your own home!
