Dr. Andrea Middleton - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Andrea Middleton

Are Scallops Bad For You?


Grade

A


Short answer

Scallops are very good for you. They are an excellent source of protein and vitamin B12, and can help protect you against a variety of ailments.

Grade

A

Recommended Alternative


Long answer

If red meats aren't your thing, or if you're looking to get a healthier protein source into your diet, you may want to consider scallops as a substitute. A shellfish-- and more specifically, a mollusk-- scallops are roughly 80% protein and are very low in both fat and calories. This makes them a great choice if you are looking to lose weight or if you're looking to gain muscle. This is because protein fills you up, keeping you satiated for longer so you are less likely to snack after consuming it. It is also necessary for the building and reparation of muscles, as well as hair, skin, nails, and bones. Scallops will, therefore, help keep you feeling fit and looking your best!

Scallops are also a good source of vitamin B12. It is difficult to find good natural sources of this micronutrient, so products like cereals are often fortified with it to make sure we all get the recommended amount. Vitamin B12 is important for cardiovascular health and can help prevent heart attack, heart disease, osteoporosis, and atherosclerosis. It is also necessary for proper nerve function, and when eaten in larger amounts can help protect against colon cancer.

Colon cancer isn't the only form of the disease you need to be less concerned about-- eating scallops and other fish on a regular basis can help protect against non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma. The more frequently you include scallops in your meals, the lower your chance will be of developing these cancers. This is also true for blood pressure, as the magnesium and potassium found in the mollusk reduce and maintain lower levels. Not only that, but the omega-3 fatty acids that scallops contain can lower your chance of blood clots and the risk of heart attack and stroke that is associated with them, reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, slow the spread of cancer, and reduce the risk of arthritis.

So long as you do not have an allergy to shellfish, which can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms as listed below, scallops are a fantastic addition to any diet and can truly help to improve your quality of life.


Possible short-term side effects

  • shellfish allergy:
  • digestive distress
  • swelling of the face, hands, or throat
  • skin reactions (hives, redness, itchiness)
  • difficulty breathing
  • anaphylaxis


Benefits

  • helps prevent:
  • heart disease and heart attack
  • atherosclerosis
  • blood clots
  • stroke
  • deep vein thrombosis
  • various cancers
  • symptoms of premenstrual syndrome
  • arthritis

Our Wellness Pick (what is this?)

Natural Scallop Shells

  • Ideal for DIY crafts
  • Natural beach decor
  • Perfect for painting
  • Ocean-themed parties
  • Authentic sea shells
Learn More!



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Lindsay
Published on: 02-18-2016
Last updated: 12-15-2023

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Lindsay
Published on: 02-18-2016
Last updated: 12-15-2023




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