Carefully monitoring your cholesterol levels helps lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. The cholesterol found in the foods you eat partially determines your blood cholesterol levels. Several types of seafood, including sea scallops, contain relatively high levels of cholesterol.
Significance
Although many people think of cholesterol as dangerous, it is an integral part of your cell structure. This waxy molecule is used to make cell membranes and synthesize new hormone molecules. If cholesterol molecules build up in your arteries, they can reduce blood flow and cause cardiovascular problems. Maintaining a low total cholesterol level benefits your overall health.
Cholesterol Level
A typical sea scallop measures about 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter. A 100-g serving, which is equivalent to approximately 3 1/2 oz., of steamed sea scallops contains 41 mg of cholesterol. A hard-boiled egg, by comparison, contains 186 mg of cholesterol.
Portion Size
When eating sea scallops, remain mindful of your portion sizes to avoid eating more cholesterol than your body needs. The Cleveland Clinic recommends that adults eat no more than 200 mg of cholesterol per day. Eating 7 to 8 oz. of sea scallops accounts for half of your recommended daily intake of cholesterol. Carefully monitor your sea scallop consumption to stay within a healthy dietary cholesterol range.
Considerations
Dietary cholesterol is not the only source of cholesterol in your body. Your liver and other organs manufacture 75 percent of the cholesterol found in your blood. Only 25 percent comes from the foods you eat. Thus, while eating large quantities of sea scallops may give your body more cholesterol than you need, it may not have a significant impact on your long-term cardiovascular health.
