Crab Benefits and Side Effects & Different Varieties

Crabs are decapod crustaceans (presence of five pairs of thoracic legs). They have a short tail and a thick shell-like covering known as an exoskeleton. Crabs also have a single pair of claws. Crabs are mentioned as invertebrates, as they do not have a backbone.

The exoskeleton in crabs protects them from predators. Crabs are omnivores. With flattened bodies and eyes on the top of the stalk, crabs are 10 legged animals that walk sideways.

Crabs usually vary in size from the pea crab, as small as a few millimeters wide to the Japanese spider crab, which has a leg span of about 4m.

Crabs can be found in ocean water, freshwater, and also on lands in the tropical region mostly. Over the years, many varieties of crabs have been discovered, such as blue crabs, Snow crabs, Dungeness crabs, and King crabs. However, these carbs have some health benefits but a few side effects too.

The Different Varieties of Crabs

There are many varieties of crabs found all over the world. All the varieties have their unique taste and health benefits. Let’s have a look at the different varieties :

• Dungeness Crab: Found in Alaska and Mexico, the giant crab weighs over 2 pounds. The crab is very tender and sweet. The harvest of these crabs is done in the winter season.

• King Crab Species: These variants include Alaskan king crab, Japanese king crab, and Russian king crab. Few of these varieties are as heavy as 20 pounds. The crabs have a hard shell with white and red meat. These varieties of crabs are harvested from October to January.

• Snow Crab: These crabs are found in the North Atlantic and South Pacific Oceans. These crabs are easier to handle than king crabs. They have a light red protective shell and a yellow or white abdomen.

• Blue Crab: These are also known as Chesapeake blue crab. These varieties are very distinct because of their blue shell. They have a sweet and salty taste to our tastebuds. They are the tastiest crabs out there.

• Soft Shell Crab: These crabs are perfect for those who don’t like to create a mess or like to eat tough meat. These variants are mainly used as fried fish and give a crispy and delicious flavor. These are salty and chewy in flavor.

Crabs Health Benefits

A rich source of protein, crabs provide many health benefits. 

A great source of protein:

Precisely one of the best sources for dietary proteins. The quality of protein is high and it can be easily digestible as there is a lack of connective tissues. 

Promotes bone health:

Calcium is important for bone health. Also, we need phosphorous for our bones. Crabmeat contains phosphorous which provides health benefits. It is important for our bones and teeth. People with osteoporosis are advised to eat crabs for the same.

Protects our heart:

Crab is low in fat but it contains omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have their benefits and protect our bodies against heart disease and brain development. It keeps a check on the cholesterol level in our body. Also, they can reduce inflammation resulting in lower blood pressure preventing our heart from atherosclerosis.

Mental activity:

The presence of vitamin B2, selenium, copper, and omega-3 fatty acids promotes mental health. Also, they can visibly improve cognition and the function of our nervous system.

Immunity booster:

Selenium and riboflavin present in crab meats play an important role in building the immune system and protects us against frightful diseases. Crabs are rich in antioxidants and hence neutralizes the free radicals which can mutate the cells.

Escalate circulation:

The presence of copper provides us with many health benefits. It can absorb iron in our bodies and increase RBC production. It can also help in faster healing and regrowth of cells.

Crabs Disadvantages/Side Effects

Although crabs come with many health benefits, they equally have some side effects on our bodies.

• Imitation crab meat is considered safe. But people with celiac disease must avoid eating these crabs as they contain starch and result in negative effects.

• Brown crab meats contain a high amount of cadmium which can be toxic if consumed in large amounts.

• Raw crabs increase the chances of food poisoning in pregnant women, children, and some adults. 

• There may be some amount of cholesterol and also sodium in crabs which can be harmful.

ALSO READ: Eat 10 Quality Foods To Lower Cholesterol Level

Crabs Benefits in Pregnancy and Fertility

Doctors generally recommend eating seafood as it is rich in Vitamin A and D. Also, it contains essential omega 3-fatty acids. So with certain precautions, pregnant ladies can always have their favorite seafood.

• According to FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), cooked crab is considered safe for pregnant ladies. It has to be cooked properly before consumption as kills the parasites and bacteria present in the crabs which can harm the unborn child.

• As crab does not contain a high level of mercury, it is completely safe for pregnant ladies.

• Crab provides us a great number of nutritions and hence it provides pregnant ladies with proteins, fatty acids, copper, zinc, calcium, manganese, iron, and many others.

• The presence of omega-3 fatty acids plays an important in good mental health and in fighting depression.

• Calcium is crucial for a baby’s bones and also for the mother for strengthening the bone structure as, during pregnancy, the mother undergoes many physical changes. Hence consuming crab will be helpful as it contains a good amount of calcium.

• Being a great source of iron, crabs build up immunity and also maintain the hemoglobin level in the body. It helps in keeping the child healthy and also in better delivery.

The Bottom Line

Crabs are seafood that is cultivated all around the world. Crabs come in different varieties and are the favorites of many. They can be eaten raw, boiled, and even cooked. Crabs come with many health benefits which makes them even more preferable. But keeping in mind the little side effects, crabs should always be eaten in moderation.

References:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crab#Description
• https://www.seafoodhealthfacts.org/description-top-commercial-seafood-items/crab
• https://www.salcombefinest.com/blog/why-crab-is-good-for-you/
• https://globalseafoods.com/blogs/news/why-eating-crab-is-good-for-you
• https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/animal-product/health-benefits-crab.html
• https://stylesatlife.com/articles/different-types-of-crabs/