5 Things You Need to Know About the Health Benefits of Shellfish

Like all types of seafood, shellfish can be a healthy part of a balanced diet. Shellfish are low in fat--lobster and shrimp have less than 1 gm of fat per serving--and very little of the fat they contain is saturated fat. Most shellfish (except for shrimp) are also very low in cholesterol. By limiting or avoiding unhealthy toppings, like butter or breadcrumbs, and by choosing to steam or broil your shellfish instead of frying it, shellfish can be a low-fat, low-cholesterol, heart-healthy choice. Shellfish is also a good source of protein.

Shellfish may be a good choice for you. (Image: Tatomm/iStock/Getty Images)

Like all types of seafood, shellfish can be a healthy part of a balanced diet. Shellfish are low in fat--lobster and shrimp have less than 1 gm of fat per serving--and very little of the fat they contain is saturated fat. Most shellfish (except for shrimp) are also very low in cholesterol. By limiting or avoiding unhealthy toppings, like butter or breadcrumbs, and by choosing to steam or broil your shellfish instead of frying it, shellfish can be a low-fat, low-cholesterol, heart-healthy choice. Shellfish is also a good source of protein.