Shrimp – A Delicate Delicacy with Surprising Nutritional Value
Shrimp is a familiar seafood variety, often caught in freshwater or brackish waters, especially popular in the Mekong Delta, Central, and Northern coastal provinces. Despite their small size and fragile shells, shrimp pack a surprising punch when it comes to nutritional content.
According to data from the National Institute of Nutrition, 100g of fresh shrimp provides approximately 1,200mg of calcium – an impressive figure when compared to 100g of soybeans (around 350mg of calcium). Shrimp are also rich in protein, iron, phosphorus, and B-complex vitamins, contributing to strong bones, preventing anemia, and supporting the nervous system.
One of the standout features of shrimp is their unique structure: most of the calcium is found in the shell, which is soft and easy to eat. Therefore, consuming the whole shrimp, including the shell, ensures a natural and abundant source of calcium that is easier to digest than calcium supplements.
Why Shrimp Is Considered a Summer “Delicious Medicine”
Not only in Vietnamese cuisine but also in Chinese culture, shrimp is regarded as a “delicious medicine” for the summer. The hot weather can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and mineral deficiencies. Consuming protein and mineral-rich foods like shrimp helps balance nutrition and supports the body in fighting off fatigue, naturally boosting immunity.
Shrimp has a sweet taste and a warming property, providing a quick energy boost without feeling heavy. Dishes like shrimp and sour fruit stir-fry, shrimp sour soup, or shrimp stir-fried vegetables are easy to prepare and help stimulate the appetite, especially during hot summer days when one’s appetite tends to diminish.
Health Benefits of Shrimp You Should Utilize
Shrimp is not only delicious but also offers numerous practical health benefits for the whole family:
- Strong Bones: The high calcium content in shrimp helps prevent osteoporosis, especially beneficial for postpartum women, the elderly, and growing children.
- Blood Enrichment: Shrimp is rich in iron, helping to prevent nutritional anemia, a common issue among women of childbearing age.
- Heart Health: The protein in shrimp is mostly easily digestible and low in saturated fat, making it suitable for a heart-healthy diet.
- Weight Loss Support: Shrimp is low in calories, nutrient-dense, and satiating, making it ideal for those watching their weight.
How to Select and Prepare Shrimp to Retain Its Nutritional Value
To maximize the nutritional benefits of shrimp, opt for fresh shrimp with shiny shells and a natural seafood aroma when purchasing. Avoid shrimp that has turned dull or soft, as these are signs of staleness.
In terms of preparation, favor dishes that retain the moisture of the shrimp, such as soups, stir-fries, or light frying. Over-frying can lead to a loss of nutrients, especially calcium. Combining shrimp with vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables like sour fruit, pineapple, or tomatoes can enhance calcium absorption in the body.
A simple summer meal suggestion is shrimp stir-fried with sour fruit. With just a handful of fresh shrimp, one sour fruit, and some fragrant scallions and garlic, you can create a delicious and nutritious dish for the whole family.
Don’t Forget This Summer’s “Gift”
Shrimp is not an expensive or hard-to-find delicacy. It is readily available in local markets and supermarkets at reasonable prices. What’s important is that we recognize the value of this tiny yet mighty seafood and incorporate it into our diets to take care of our health, especially during summer when our bodies need extra nutritional support.
