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. Consuming the shell provides a natural and easily digestible source of calcium for the body, surpassing the benefits of dietary 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’s natural defenses against fatigue, boosting immunity.
Shrimp has a sweet taste and a warming effect, providing a quick energy boost without heaviness. Dishes like shrimp and sour gourd, shrimp sour soup, or shrimp stir-fry are easy to prepare and appetizing, especially during hot summer days when appetites tend to wane.
Health Benefits of Shrimp You Should Utilize
Shrimp is not only delicious but also offers a plethora of health benefits for the entire 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 digestible and contains low 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.
Selecting and Preparing Shrimp to Retain Maximum Nutrition
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 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 like sour gourd, pineapple, or tomatoes enhances calcium absorption.
A simple summer meal idea is stir-fried shrimp with sour gourd. With just a handful of fresh shrimp, one sour gourd, and some fried onions and garlic, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious dish for the whole family.
Don’t Overlook This Summer “Gift”
Shrimp is neither a luxurious nor a rare delicacy. It is readily available in local markets and supermarkets at reasonable prices. What matters is recognizing the nutritional value of this tiny yet mighty seafood and incorporating it into our diets, especially during summer when our bodies require extra nourishment.
