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King Crab Legs Nutritional Facts

King crabs, and in particular king crab legs, are a delicacy. King crabs are among the largest and most impressive crab species in the world. Their snowy-white meat is praised for its flavor and texture. They are also extremely beneficial to your health and contribute to a balanced diet.

  1. Facts

    • King crabs live in the cold waters off the Alaska coast. There are three main types of king crab that are fished commercially. Red king crab, which can be found in the waters of Bristol Bay and Norton Sound, is the most sought after of the king crab species. Its shell is a deep shade of scarlet, which turns bright red when cooked. Blue king crabs are fished off the coasts of the Pribilof Islands and St. Matthew Island. They are identified by their large claws and their brownish-blue shells. Blue king crabs are one of the larger species of crab in the world. Golden king crab make their home in the waters surrounding the Aleutian Island chain. These crabs are the smallest and most prolific of the major king crab species.

    Nutrients

    • One serving of King Crab legs, which is about 3 ounces cooked, contains 82 calories. One leg weighing 5 ounces has about 132 calories. King crab legs are low in fat and high in protein; they also contain no carbohydrates. One leg contains 26 grams of protein and 2 grams of fat. King crab legs are an excellent source of copper, selenium, vitamin B12, niacin, phosphorus, zinc and magnesium.

    Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    • King Crab legs are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are found primarily in seafood, are extremely beneficial for heart health. Studies have shown that consumption of omega-3 rich foods such as king crab legs can reduce the risk of heart attack and other coronary related diseases. They lower triglyceride levels, as well as blood pressure, and king crab legs slow the build up of atherosclerotic plaques, which can cause serious cardiovascular problems. Omega-3 fatty acids also have been proven to boost the immune system and may aid Alzheimer's patients.

    Health Benefits

    • Eating king crab legs can contribute to a healthy diet. They are high in essential vitamins and minerals. Scientists have conducted studies revealing that those who consume seafood on a regular basis are more likely to live longer, healthier lives. Eating seafood can prevent the onset of many diseases such as cancer, particularly breast cancer. Tests have shown that consuming seafood can also relieve inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

    Cooking

    • The best way to benefit from the low calorie content and succulent taste of king crab legs is by steaming or boiling them. This way, they maintain their nutritional content. Although many people enjoy dipping crab in butter, this adds to the total caloric and fat intake. King crab legs can be enjoyed simply, without any sauce, or with just a squeeze of lemon. They can also be added to salads and soups for more variety.

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