Health Viewpoints
Enjoyed worldwide, shrimp is a good source of various nutrients and vitamins. Consuming shrimp can protect cardiovascular health, provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, and regulate the immune system. Moreover, shrimp is low in calories and has a low fat content, making it suitable for losing weight. However, shrimp is also one of the primary sources of arsenic intake for humans, and arsenic and its compounds have varying toxicity levels.
A story circulating online claimed that a Taiwanese girl died from arsenic poisoning after consuming large amounts of shrimp and vitamin C. Is this story true? What happens when you eat shrimp and vitamin C together? What precautions should one take when consuming shrimp? This article offer’s a health professional’s analysis of the incident.
Nutritional Value of Shrimp
A study published in the Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences in 2022 revealed that shrimp meat has significant nutritional value and high antioxidant activity. Grilling is considered the best method for preparing shrimp. Shrimp contains the following main nutrients:1. Special Proteins
Shrimp contains particular proteins such as shrimp membrane, anticoagulant, and chitosan proteins, and antioxidant enzymes. These proteins provide essential amino acids, aid in body tissue construction and repair, regulate muscle contraction and relaxation, protect cardiovascular health, maintain immune system health, and support antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory functions.Story continues below advertisement
However, some individuals may be allergic to these proteins, leading to symptoms like skin itching and gastrointestinal discomfort. Severe cases may cause throat swelling, breathing difficulties, and anaphylactic shock. Therefore, those allergic to shrimp or who suspect an allergy should avoid consuming it.
2. Essential Fatty Acids
Shrimp is rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These essential fatty acids are critical components in cells and are crucial for nerve signal transmission and the synthesis of anti-inflammatory substances. They have numerous benefits for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.3. Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that can reduce oxidative and inflammatory stress, protect the eyes, and promote skin health, among other benefits.A study published in the journal Marine Drugs in 2021 found that shrimp is a rich source of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant in free or esterified form (Astx-E). Shrimp oil is abundant in esterified astaxanthin, which helps inhibit fat formation.
4. Vitamin B12
Shrimp contains significant amounts of vitamin B12, vital for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell production.5. Trace Elements
Shrimp contains trace elements such as selenium and zinc, possessing antioxidant properties and helping regulate immune and thyroid function. These elements also play a role in DNA synthesis and maintain skin, hair, and nail health.Relationship Between Shrimp and Vitamin C
Is it true that eating shrimp and vitamin C together will produce arsenic in the body?The claim that consuming shrimp with vitamin C produces arsenic in the body is untrue. Shrimp, a shellfish, contains primarily organic arsenic, which can be metabolized and eliminated from the body, posing minimal harm. Shrimp also contains trace amounts of pentavalent arsenic compounds, classified as inorganic arsenic. Long-term ingestion of inorganic arsenic can lead to chronic arsenic poisoning. However, commercially sold shrimp products have controlled levels of pentavalent arsenic and must comply with relevant food safety standards.
So from where did this claim arise? It is theoretically possible under specific laboratory conditions that high concentrations of pentavalent arsenic paired with hefty doses of vitamin C can produce arsenic. This could result in a chemical reaction that reduces pentavalent arsenic to trivalent arsenic, the highly toxic component of arsenic trioxide (arsenic). However, achieving this chemical reaction in the human body would require consuming tens or even hundreds of kilograms of shrimp.
Under normal circumstances, consuming shrimp with foods or supplements high in vitamin C is entirely safe and will not lead to poisoning.
Precautions When Consuming Shrimp
While shrimp can be paired with many foods, specific interactions with other foods and medications or some individuals’ certain digestive issues may make combinations less ideal. Here are some precautions to consider when consuming shrimp:1. Dairy Products
Some may experience indigestion or allergic reactions when consuming shrimp with milk, cheese, or other dairy products. This is particularly true for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Therefore, it is best to avoid this combination.2. High-Acid Fruits
Due to the high protein content in shrimp, pairing it with high-acid fruits such as lemons, limes, or grapefruits may cause digestive issues or stomach discomfort. It is generally acceptable if small amounts of these fruits are used for flavor, but large quantities of high-acid fruits should be avoided.3. High-Fat Foods
Shrimp itself has a relatively low-fat content. However, consuming it with high-fat foods such as deep-fried items, rich cream sauces, or excessive amounts of butter can impact the health benefits of shrimp and increase calorie intake.Story continues below advertisement
Some people believe eating shrimp and pumpkin can cause dysentery. This claim is scientifically unfounded, as dysentery is a bacterial infection, and food combinations do not cause it. The main concern may be related to potential digestive discomfort.
Shrimp is a high-nutrient, low-fat, and low-calorie delicacy to be enjoyed, especially during the summer. You can supplement with vitamin C and safely consume shrimp in moderation without any concerns.
Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate. To submit an opinion piece, please follow these guidelines and submit through our form here.
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