Tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) is one of the shrimp varieties that is quite commonly cultivated in Indonesia. This type of shrimp is also known by local names such as udang pancet, bago, pedet, or udang menjangan.
With its bluish-green shell color, tender flesh texture, and a savory taste, tiger shrimp is one of the most liked shrimp varieties in various dishes. Apart from its delicious taste, tiger shrimp also offers various health benefits. Explore the complete benefits of tiger shrimp below!
7 Health Benefits of Tiger Shrimp
Tiger shrimp has various nutrients that make it beneficial for health, such as:
1. High Protein Content
Tiger shrimp contains beneficial protein content that promotes growth and builds body tissues.
Additionally, the protein in tiger shrimp helps maintain body cells, supports metabolism, forms the immune system, aids in muscle formation, and promotes the health of the heart, skin, and hair. 100 grams of tiger shrimp contains approximately 20.3 grams of protein.
Read more: 5 Popular Types of Freshwater Shrimp that are Often Cultivated in Farms
2. Rich in Minerals
Another benefit of tiger shrimp comes from its high mineral content. Tiger shrimp contains essential minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and potassium, which contribute to preventing osteoporosis, suppressing the growth of cancer cells in the body, and maintaining optimal heart health.
3. Source of Vitamins
In addition to minerals, tiger shrimp also contains various vitamins essential for the body. One of them is vitamin B1, which plays a role in maintaining immune system function, metabolism, and heart health.
Additionally, it contains vitamin B12, crucial for red blood cell formation, nerve function, and DNA production. Another benefit of tiger shrimp is maintaining eye health and preventing premature aging, thanks to its vitamin A content.
4. Rich in Antioxidants
Apart from protein, vitamins, and minerals, tiger shrimp is rich in antioxidants. One of the main antioxidant components in tiger shrimp is astaxanthin, which helps prevent oxidative stress in the body.
In other words, astaxanthin reduces the risk of cell damage and chronic diseases. This antioxidant also gives a unique color to the shrimp's flesh!
5. Contains Healthy Fats
Contrary to the belief that all fat in food is unhealthy, tiger shrimp contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
These fatty acids are difficult to find in other foods, making them essential to consume from seafood such as shrimp. Their benefits include promoting heart health, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cognitive function.
6. Provides Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber is commonly associated with fruits or vegetables. However, tiger shrimp also contains fiber in its head and shell. This fiber is called chitin and forms the shrimp's shell structure. When consumed, this fiber acts as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria or probiotics in the gut.
7. Strengthens Joints and Bones
Another benefit of tiger shrimp is strengthening joints and bones. This is due to the presence of glucosamine and chondroitin, components that make up the shrimp's shell. Both substances are highly beneficial for strengthening bones, joints, and teeth.
Conclusion
Those are the 7 benefits of tiger shrimp, consuming them is beneficial in providing protein, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber to the body. Make sure to consume them within the right portion and balance them with other types of nutritious foods for a healthy diet.
If you want to enjoy the health benefits of shrimp, ensure that you consume shrimp of guaranteed quality and freshness. JALA offers a variety of high-quality frozen shrimp with guaranteed freshness at Frosala, ready to meet your seafood needs. Learn more on the Frosala page!