Are Snow Crab Legs High In Cholesterol
Snow crab legs are a favorite seafood delicacy for many people in the United States. They are often served in restaurants or prepared at home as a special treat for dinner. However, there is a common concern among people who love to eat snow crab legs, and that is whether they are high in cholesterol or not.
What Are Snow Crab Legs?
Snow crab legs are the legs of a species of crab called Chionoecetes opilio, commonly known as snow crab. These crabs are found in the North Pacific and North Atlantic oceans and are harvested for their sweet and tender meat. Snow crab legs are a popular seafood in the United States, especially during the winter months when they are in season.
Nutritional Value of Snow Crab Legs
Snow crab legs are low in calories and fat and are an excellent source of protein. According to the USDA, a 3-ounce serving of cooked snow crab legs contains:
- 97 calories
- 0.84 grams of fat
- 19.87 grams of protein
- 82 milligrams of cholesterol
- 0 grams of carbohydrates
- 125 milligrams of sodium
From the nutritional information above, it is clear that snow crab legs are low in calories and do not contain any carbohydrates. They are also a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles in the body.
Cholesterol in Snow Crab Legs
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is found in animal products. It is an essential component of every cell in the body and is required for various bodily functions. However, too much cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Many people avoid eating seafood, including snow crab legs, because they believe that it is high in cholesterol. While it is true that snow crab legs contain cholesterol, the amount is not as high as you may think. According to the USDA, a 3-ounce serving of cooked snow crab legs contains about 82 milligrams of cholesterol.
It is important to note that the American Heart Association recommends that people limit their dietary cholesterol intake to no more than 300 milligrams per day. Therefore, a serving of snow crab legs may not put you over your daily limit, but it is important to be mindful of other sources of cholesterol in your diet.
Benefits of Eating Snow Crab Legs
Despite concerns about cholesterol, snow crab legs have numerous health benefits that make them a great addition to a healthy diet. Here are some of the benefits of eating snow crab legs:
- High in protein: As mentioned earlier, snow crab legs are an excellent source of protein, which is vital for building and repairing muscle tissue.
- Low in calories: Snow crab legs are a low-calorie food that can help you maintain a healthy weight.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Snow crab legs contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, zinc, and copper.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Snow crab legs are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function.
Conclusion
In conclusion, snow crab legs are not as high in cholesterol as many people believe. While they do contain cholesterol, a serving of snow crab legs is unlikely to put you over your daily limit. Additionally, snow crab legs are a nutritious food that provides numerous health benefits. As with any food, it is important to enjoy snow crab legs in moderation and to be mindful of other sources of cholesterol in your diet.
