Shrimp – A Nutritious Delicacy
Shrimp is a familiar seafood delicacy, often caught in freshwater or brackish water, especially popular in the Mekong Delta, Central, and Northern coastal provinces. Despite their small size and fragile shells, shrimp pack a surprising nutritional punch.
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 easily digestible source of calcium for the body.
Why Shrimp is a Summer “Delicious Medicine”
Not only in Vietnamese cuisine, but shrimp is also considered a “delicious medicine” for summer by the Chinese. Hot weather can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and mineral deficiencies. The high protein and mineral content in shrimp help balance nutrition and support the body’s natural defenses against fatigue.
Shrimp has a sweet taste and a warming effect, providing a quick energy boost without heaviness. Dishes like shrimp and sour fruit, shrimp sour soup, or stir-fried shrimp and vegetables are easy to prepare and perfect for stimulating the appetite during hot summer days.
Health Benefits of Shrimp You Should Utilize
Shrimp is not only delicious but also offers numerous 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, preventing 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: Shrimp is low in calories, nutrient-dense, and satiating, making it ideal for those watching their weight.
Choosing and Cooking Shrimp to Retain Nutrients
To maximize the nutritional value of shrimp, opt for fresh shrimp with shiny shells and a natural seafood aroma when purchasing. Avoid dull, soft shrimp as they are no longer fresh. When cooking, favor dishes that retain the shrimp’s moisture, 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 enhances calcium absorption. A simple and nutritious summer dish is stir-fried shrimp with sour fruit. With just a handful of fresh shrimp, a sour fruit, and some fried onions and garlic, you have a delicious and healthy meal for the whole family.
Don’t Forget This Summer’s “Gift”
Shrimp is neither a luxury nor a rare delicacy. It is readily available in local markets and supermarkets at reasonable prices. What matters is that we recognize the value of this tiny yet mighty seafood and incorporate it into our diets, especially during summer when our bodies need extra nutritional support.
