Five Big Health Benefits of Eating Crab (2024)

U.S. nutrition guidelines are constantly urging Americans to incorporate more seafood into their diet. Seafood provides healthy fats, vitamins, and other nutrients that are seldom found in meat and plant sources.

While it is widely believed that eating fish is the best way to reap all of the health benefits that seafood has to offer, crab is actually an excellent alternative, often with even more nutritional value. Continue reading to learn more about the health benefits of crab from our seafood experts at Farm-2-Market.

5 Health Benefits of Crab

1. Rich in protein

Crab is extremely high in protein, boasting approximately 20 grams per 100 grams of meat. Although a serving of chicken or beef could be a comparable source of protein, they come with far more saturated fat than crab, which contains a minuscule 0.2 grams.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids

Like salmon, crab is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, however, the type of omega-3 acids found in crab are polyunsaturated, which means the overall fat content and calories are much lower than that of salmon. These fatty acids are essential for brain development, and protection against heart disease.

3. Immune system booster

Shrimp, mussels, clam, and all other types of shellfish are excellent sources of an antioxidant called selenium, however, crab packs a serious punch when it comes to this nutrient. Adults can obtain over 100% of daily selenium requirements with a modest, 100g serving of crab. Selenium helps defend the body against cell and tissue damage, therefore boosting the immune system.

4. Source of Vitamin B2

Crab is a source of Vitamin B2, (also known as Riboflavin), which is an important nutrient that should be consumed daily through food or nutritional supplements, as the body is not able to naturally produce and store it. This vitamin is vital to the production of red blood cells, growth, nervous system function, digestion, and much more.

5. Important minerals

Crab is packed with important minerals including copper and phosphorus. Copper is essential for absorbing and processing iron, as well as supporting various skeletal, immune, and nervous system functions. Phosphorus helps metabolize food and supports the function of organs such as the kidneys and heart. A 100g serving of crab provides well over half of the daily requirements for both of these minerals.