Does Shrimp Have Carbohydrates? A Deep Dive into Shrimp Nutrition

Shrimp is one of the most popular types of seafood around the world Many people enjoy the sweet, briny flavor of these tiny crustaceans in dishes like shrimp scampi, coconut shrimp, and shrimp salad. But when it comes to healthy eating, many wonder – does shrimp have carbohydrates?

In this in-depth article, we’ll explore the nutritional profile of shrimp, looking closely at the carb content as well as calories, protein, cholesterol and more We’ll also highlight the many health benefits of shrimp and give tips for enjoying it as part of a balanced diet Read on to get the full story on shrimp nutrition and carbs!

A Look at Shrimp Nutrition and Carbohydrate Content

Here’s an overview of the nutrition facts for a 3-ounce serving of cooked shrimp which is about 90 calories worth or around 8-12 medium sized shrimp

• Protein: Approximately 17 grams, making shrimp an excellent source of this muscle-building nutrient.

• Fat: Less than 1 gram, with shrimp being low in saturated fat and containing heart-healthy unsaturated fats.

• Cholesterol: Around 160 milligrams. While high in dietary cholesterol, research shows shrimp does not negatively impact blood cholesterol for most.

• Sodium: Roughly 115-130 milligrams, depending on preparation method. Pretty low for seafood.

• Carbohydrates: Under 1 gram of carbs, with no sugar and almost zero fiber.

So in terms of the carb content, shrimp is very low, with practically no carbs or sugar. The tiny amount present comes from the shrimp’s natural glycogen stores rather than any added carbohydrates. This makes shrimp a fantastic option for low-carb, Keto, Paleo and other carb-conscious diets.

Shrimp also provides a host of beneficial vitamins and minerals like selenium, iodine, copper and B12. And it packs anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA.

The Many Health Benefits of Eating Shrimp

Given the stellar nutrition stats, it’s no wonder that shrimp offers many impressive health benefits. Here are some of the top ways that incorporating shrimp into your diet can boost your health:

• Supports heart health – The omega-3s in shrimp help lower triglycerides and reduce plaque buildup in arteries. The low saturated fat content also promotes heart health.

• Boosts brain function – The EPA and DHA omega-3s in shrimp support cognitive function and brain development. They may also reduce risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

• Aids weight loss – With its low calorie, low fat, high protein content, shrimp can help you feel full, curb cravings and potentially lose weight when eaten in moderation.

• Builds lean muscle – The substantial amount of protein per serving makes shrimp great for building and maintaining lean muscle mass.

• Rich in vital nutrients – Shrimp provide high amounts of selenium, iodine, B12, zinc, copper and other nutrients vital to health in a low calorie package.

• Anti-inflammatory effects – The omega-3 fatty acids in shrimp reduce inflammation throughout the body, helping prevent chronic diseases tied to inflammation.

Tips for Enjoying Shrimp as Part of a Healthy Diet

To reap the nutritional benefits of shrimp while keeping calories, sodium and cholesterol in check, here are some simple tips:

• Choose wild caught or sustainably farmed shrimp whenever possible.

• Opt for grilling, broiling or stir-frying instead of deep frying.

• Enjoy shrimp in moderation as part of a varied diet. 2-3 servings per week is ample.

• Pair shrimp with plenty of vegetables, whole grains, beans and other high fiber foods.

• Experiment with herbs, spices, citrus and heart-healthy fats instead of calorie-laden sauces.

• Buy shell-on shrimp when you can and make your own stock from the shells.

• Avoid pre-seasoned and breaded shrimp which can be high in calories, carbs, fat and sodium.

The Takeaway on Shrimp, Carbs and Nutrition

Shrimp is very low in carbohydrates, with less than 1 gram per typical serving, while providing a hefty dose of protein, key vitamins and minerals, and inflammation-fighting omega-3s. Enjoyed as part of a healthy diet, shrimp offers incredible benefits for heart and brain health, muscle building, weight control and more. So savor shrimp guilt-free knowing it delivers ample nutrition without the carb overload.