Wild-caught American shrimp are amazing for more than their premium taste. Along with their beautifying properties, they are packed with health benefits from their natural nutrients, such as protein and vitamins like B12. But a healthy diet also includes the need for omega-3 fatty acids and other micro-elements that shrimp contain.

Shrimp are an excellent source of iron, a mineral whose primary function is to carry oxygen throughout the body as part of red blood cells. A steady amount of iron in one’s diet helps prevent anemia and increases the body’s resistance to infection. The recommended daily allowance for iron is 8.7 milligrams a day for men over 18, 14.8 milligrams a day for women ages 19 to 50 and 8.7 milligrams for women over 50 — and according to Daily Iron, shrimp contain three milligrams of iron per 100 grams (with three ounces of shrimp equaling 85 grams of iron)!

Copper and zinc are just as important, with adult men needing 11 milligrams of zinc per day, women needing eight milligrams and both needing 900 micrograms of copper per day. Shrimp contain 0.29 milligrams of copper and 1.85 milligrams of zinc per 113 grams. Together, copper and zinc help promote antioxidant reactions in the body, which are associated with a wide variety of health benefits (visit our blog post on selenium in shrimp for more information on antioxidants). On top of both supporting healthy growth and development, zinc can help treat the common cold and copper may help prevent osteoporosis. Finally, shrimp provide nutrients known as omega-3 fatty acids. They are called “fatty” acids because they are the building blocks of the fat consumed through food. Our bodies break down fats into fatty acids, which are then absorbed into our bloodstream and provide an assortment of health benefits. According to Healthline, omega-3 fatty acids can help fight depression and anxiety, improve eye health, reduce the risk for heart disease, stop autoimmune diseases and even prevent cancer. Most health organizations recommend a minimum intake of 250 to 500 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids a day. It’s a good thing three ounces of shrimp contain 267 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids!

When you consume our savory, wild-caught American shrimp, not only will your tastebuds will say, “Thank you,” the rest of your body will too! Visit our Health Benefits page to learn about more of the amazing health benefits of shrimp.