If you're a shellfish connoisseur, it's likely you know a grade of crab meat is referred to as "brown crab meat," but that there also is a species of crab known as the brown crab. Over 4,500 different species of crab exist all over the globe. The brown crab, primarily found in Europe, is closely related to the Dungeness crab found on the North American West Coast. The grade of crab meat rated "brown" is strong-flavored and consists of the brown- or reddish-colored meat found in crab claws, legs or the top of the shell cavity. White crab meat is graded progressively higher as chunks of the tasty meat become larger. Regardless of the crab species or its grade, all crabmeat has a flavorful, sweet taste and is valued as a delicacy in many parts of the world.
Concerns
It's likely you've heard information about contaminated ocean water and how that could affect your health. In addition, you may have heard that all shellfish contains a high amount of cholesterol. Crabmeat is believed to be good for you, however, although it's always a good idea to get plenty of variety in your diet. The American Heart Association, or AHA, recommends that a variety of fish should be eaten at least twice a week, as long as you have no history of coronary heart disease. In addition, the AHA reports that the positive effects of eating fish a few times a week are much greater than the potential negatives for middle-aged and older men and women.
Nutrition
The USDA considers 3 ounces of seafood to be one serving. Whether you consume fish that is oily or lean, all seafood is nutritional in that it contains low amounts of saturated fat and high amounts of protein. Crabmeat, as well as other types of seafood referred to as "oily," is thought to lower the risk of heart disease, according to the AHA.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
"Oily" seafood, including crabmeat, has a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, essential fats your body needs to function correctly but is unable to manufacture for itself. You can only give your body the omega-3 fatty acids it needs by eating food that contains them. The AHA reports that omega-3 fatty acids have been proven to benefit your heart whether you are considered healthy, at a high risk for heart disease, or even if you already have heart disease.
Vitamins
Crabmeat contains minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc, and vitamins including B12 and E, which are recommended for a balanced and nutritional diet.
Health Benefits
In addition to aiding in the prevention of heart disease with omega-3 fatty acids, crabmeat is believed to increase your levels of good cholesterol because it contains the mineral chromium. An increase in good cholesterol also serves to stabilize levels of glucose in your blood, which is important for people who have diabetes. Studies from the University of Alaska suggest that brown crabmeat, a source of selenium, also can help prevent cancer.
References
- University of Alaska: Marketing and Shipping Live Aquatic Products
- Cook Frozen Crab: Brown Crab Meat
- Help With Cooking: Nutritional Value Of Crab Meat
- The British Dietetic Association: Food Facts Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- The American Heart Association: Frequently Asked Questions About Fish
- American Heart Association: Cooking for Lower Cholesterol
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