How Many Calories in Boiled Shrimp?

Boiled shrimp is a popular seafood dish enjoyed by many people. Not only is it delicious, but it is also a nutritious option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. One important aspect of maintaining a healthy diet is knowing the calorie count of the foods you eat. In this article, we will examine how many calories are in boiled shrimp and what factors can influence the calorie count.

First, let’s establish what a serving size of boiled shrimp is. A serving size is typically 4 ounces or 113 grams, which is equivalent to about seven to eight medium-sized shrimp. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 4-ounce serving of boiled shrimp contains approximately 121 calories. This means that a 7-8 shrimp serving will contain approximately 170-200 calories.

The calorie count in boiled shrimp is influenced by several factors, including the size and preparation method of the shrimp. For example, larger shrimp will have more calories than smaller shrimp, and fried shrimp will have more calories than boiled shrimp. Additionally, the calorie count can be influenced by any sauces or seasonings used during preparation, as well as any sides that are served with the shrimp.

Shrimp is a low-fat food, with only 1 gram of total fat per 4-ounce serving. The majority of the calories in boiled shrimp come from protein, with 27 grams per serving. This makes boiled shrimp an excellent source of protein for those looking to increase their intake. Shrimp is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health, and a good source of vitamin B12, which is important for brain function and red blood cell formation.

One of the biggest advantages of shrimp is its low calorie content. A 3-ounce serving of boiled shrimp contains only 84 calories. This serving size is equivalent to about 6 to 8 medium-sized shrimp. This means that you can enjoy a large serving of shrimp without having to worry about consuming a lot of calories.

In addition to being low in calories, boiled shrimp is also a great source of protein. A 3-ounce serving of boiled shrimp contains approximately 18 grams of protein. This is more than 30% of the daily recommended intake of protein for an average adult. Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and repair muscle tissue, and is also important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.

Shrimp is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential for maintaining heart health, reducing inflammation, and promoting brain function. A 3-ounce serving of boiled shrimp contains approximately 200 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids. This is roughly 10% of the daily recommended intake of omega-3s.

Boiled shrimp is also a good source of several vitamins and minerals. For example, it is rich in Vitamin B12, which is essential for maintaining healthy nerve cells and red blood cells. It is also a good source of phosphorous, which is important for building strong bones and teeth. Additionally, shrimp is a good source of selenium, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system and protecting cells from oxidative stress.

In addition to its low calorie content and high nutritional value, boiled shrimp is also a very versatile food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be used in salads, pasta dishes, stir-fry dishes, and more. It can also be added to soups, stews, and casseroles to add extra flavor and nutrition.

In conclusion, boiled shrimp is a great food choice for those who are looking to maintain a healthy diet. It is low in calories, high in protein, and rich in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin B12, phosphorous, and selenium. Whether you are trying to lose weight, build muscle, or simply improve your overall health, incorporating boiled shrimp into your diet is a great way to achieve your goals. So next time you are in the mood for a delicious and nutritious meal, consider boiling up some shrimp!