Seafood is often considered a more heart healthy option than some other entrees, but you may be surprised to learn that shrimp is ideal for special diets like paleo, keto, high-protein, and more. Seafood and shrimp can accommodate many different dietary preferences and necessities.
Where one may need to exercise caution is the way the shrimp is prepared and any sauces or dips that come with it. However, boiled shrimp with a squeeze of lemon juice or a nice cocktail sauce is a go-to option for many in Houston who are watching what they eat.
The Incredible Shrimp
Shrimp is a crowd favorite because they are bite-sized, packed with protein, and can be prepared hundreds of different ways.
As a source of lean protein, consumers need not worry about the fat content of shrimp. For this reason, this type of seafood may even be helpful for those who are watching their weight. Boiled shrimp is both tasty and filling, leaving people feeling satiated and full without all the saturated fat and added calories.
Although this alone is a good enough reason to incorporate shrimp into your diet once or twice a week, the benefits go well beyond. Shrimp are nutritional powerhouses of sorts because of the minerals and vitamins they contain, such as copper, iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, vitamin B12, and zinc.
Now that you know the nutritional potency of shrimp, let’s talk about the many ways it can work for special diets.
The Benefits of Shrimp for Special Diets
Since shrimp can be enjoyed simply by boiling them in water or baking them in the oven with very little additives, they can be a safe and delicious choice for some special diets such as:
- Gluten-free. Those individuals following a gluten-free diet must avoid all foods that contain gluten. This often includes the batter that is used for fried shrimp. However, boiled shrimp without any additions or those that include safe, gluten-free Cajun spices could still accommodate a gluten-free diet.
- High Protein. People who eat a strictly high-protein diet generally consume food that has high amounts of protein. Depending on how strict a diet they follow, they may choose to limit or eliminate foods that contain primarily carbohydrates. Since shrimp is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, it could be a great fit for this type of diet.
- A Keto diet is typically categorized as a high-fat, low-carbohydrate, and moderate protein diet that some say aids with weight loss by putting the body into a state of ketosis. Shrimp yield a high amount of protein and are low carbohydrate, which means that shrimp scampi and some delicious dipping sauces are some flavorful options.
- Low-fat. Each year, thousands of people are advised to partake in a lower fat diet to maintain a better quality of overall health. Whether individuals are trying to eat low fat or low cholesterol, eating shrimp can fit the bill for both while also offering key nutrients.
- Paleo-friendly. The Paleo diet is built on the principle that people should limit their diet to the foods eaten by early humans. The theory is that humans’ genes are geared better toward tolerating and utilizing these types of foods. Fishermen and shrimpers have been harvesting a wealth of seafood from the earth’s oceans and waterways for decades, making shrimp a green light food for a paleo-friendly diet.
- Whole 30 compliant. Those people who engage in the Whole 30 diet tend to eat only whole foods that are not considered to be processed. Some of the foods that might be good for this particular diet include seafood like shrimp, other meats, vegetables, and fruits.
Catering to Those with and without Special Diets All at the Same Time
If hosting a gathering at your home, it can be both a great responsibility and effort to accommodate those who have special diets along with those who do not. Depending on the specific diet guests or family members are on, shrimp can be an excellent choice.
Another option is to order shrimp from a restaurant. Find a takeout restaurant that offers both fried and boiled shrimp so you are able to accommodate your guests’ diets all in one place. Although, it can be a good idea to call and speak with the restaurant during a non-peak hour to discuss what those dietary needs are and if the restaurant can accommodate them.
For example, ordering boiled shrimp, corn on the cob and red potatoes might work just perfect for those on the Whole 30, low-fat, or paleo diet. Yet, for those guests who prefer fried offerings, you can still order those findings along with other fried goodies like hush puppies, Boudin balls, and sweet potato fries.
Being able to get everything you need for your meal all at one place can help save valuable time. Plus, once you are home and dinner is served, you can truly relax and enjoy knowing you have done your best to ensure the shrimp and sides work well for all your guests.
Shrimp works for many special diets, so don’t let some restrictions keep you from hosting a seafood dinner for a crowd. Should shrimp not work for one of the guests, many reputable seafood restaurants also offer a chicken dish to accommodate that need. With something for everyone, people will be talking about your fabulous Cajun seafood and shrimp dinner for weeks to come.