Cholesterol is a lipid found in many foods we consume daily. With a daily maximum limit of just 500 mg, it’s quite easy to exceed this amount. For instance, consuming just two eggs or 300 grams of shrimp can reach the daily allowable limit of cholesterol.
Shrimp, in particular, has a high cholesterol content compared to other crustaceans and mollusks. This led to shrimp being labeled as a dangerous food towards the end of the last century. Even today, many people believe that cholesterol is extremely harmful to health and is the leading cause of atherosclerosis.
The Benefits of Cholesterol
Contrary to popular belief, cholesterol is not only derived from food but is also produced by the human body. In fact, cholesterol is vital for human health. It serves as a building material for cell membranes and is found in the nerves of the spinal cord and brain, tissues, and blood. Additionally, aliphatic acids produced from cholesterol in the liver are necessary for the absorption of fats entering the human body with food. Furthermore, cholesterol helps the normal functioning of the brain’s serotonin receptors, which are responsible for maintaining a good mood.
However, the situation is not so simple, as cholesterol plaques can form in our bodies. Many scientists believe that these plaques are not caused by cholesterol itself but by abnormalities in lipid metabolism. Lipoproteins, responsible for transporting cholesterol within the body, can accumulate cholesterol due to certain disruptions, leading to the formation of plaques that block blood vessels.
The exact causes of this process are still unknown, but genetic disruptions and harmful environmental effects are suspected. However, it is known that many foods containing cholesterol are not harmful; in fact, they are beneficial. This includes shrimp, which, along with squid, mussels, and sea cabbage, helps remove excess cholesterol from the body.
The Power of Astaxanthin in Shrimp
Shrimp contains a unique antioxidant called Astaxanthin. Recently discovered, Astaxanthin is 10 times stronger than fruit antioxidants and 500 times more potent than vitamin E. This powerful antioxidant protects our cells from aging and the harmful effects of toxins, radiation, and stress. Antioxidants like Astaxanthin have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, helping to prevent heart attacks and strokes. They are also used in the treatment of varix dilatation, asthma, psoriasis, arthritis, rheumatism, and can improve memory and eyesight.
The Bottom Line
Based on these findings, it is clear that regular consumption of shrimp, especially when boiled or included in salads with fresh vegetables, is highly beneficial for human health. It should come as no surprise that the life expectancy of residents in coastal countries and cities is significantly higher than that of people living far from the seas and oceans. So, embrace the health benefits of shrimp and enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
