The surprising benefits of crab meat for cardiovascular health.

When it comes to cardiovascular health, we often think of healthy foods like salmon, nuts, or leafy green vegetables. However, crab meat also offers many benefits for the heart, but it's less frequently mentioned.

To maximize the health benefits of crab meat, the best way is to steam it, and avoid unhealthy cooking methods such as frying, stir-frying with lots of oil, or eating it with salt or salty dipping sauces, according to the health website Heathline (USA).

Crab meat is rich in nutrients that are good for health, but it should only be consumed in moderation.

PHOTO: AI

Crab meat is good for cardiovascular health due to the following nutritional benefits:

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. Therefore, we need to obtain them from our diet. Omega-3s are notable for their ability to protect cardiovascular health.

Crab meat is a surprising source of omega-3s, particularly EPA and DHA. These are two fatty acids that help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies show that omega-3s lower triglyceride levels in the blood, thereby reducing inflammation in the arteries and preventing blood clot formation.

Rich in potassium, good for blood pressure.

Crab meat is a good source of potassium, a mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy blood pressure. Potassium reduces the effects of sodium. Sodium is a mineral found in salt. Consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure.

Contains many antioxidants.

Crab meat is rich in selenium, a trace mineral with powerful antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.

These free radicals are molecules that cause oxidative stress and damage cells and tissues. Oxidative stress is a major cause of aging, leading to the development of many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease.

Who should be cautious when eating crab?

To maximize the benefits of crab meat, healthy individuals can consume it about 1-2 times per week, with each serving being approximately 85-110 grams. However, while crab meat is nutritious, it's not suitable for everyone. People with seafood allergies should avoid it. This is because, for those with allergies, crab meat can trigger severe allergic reactions such as rashes, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, and in some cases, anaphylactic shock.

Although crab is nutritious, sea crabs can contain high levels of mercury and heavy metals. Pregnant women and young children should limit their consumption. Crab meat contains purines, a compound that can be metabolized into uric acid in the body. High levels of uric acid can worsen the symptoms of gout, according to Heathline .

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/loi-ich-dang-ngac-nhien-cua-thit-cua-voi-tim-mach-185250410134006447.htm