Are shrimp keto friendly? – Calories, Nutrition and Keto Recipes
Are shrimp Keto-Friendly?
Yes, shrimp are an excellent choice for those following a ketogenic diet. They are not only low in carbs, but they also provide a good source of protein. This makes them ideal for maintaining the necessary macronutrient ratios for a keto diet, which usually consists of a high proportion of fats, moderate amount of protein, and a very low level of carbohydrates.
Nutritional Facts About shrimp
Shrimp are also a rich source of numerous vitamins and minerals. They are particularly high in iodine, an important nutrient that many people are lacking, that’s crucial for proper thyroid function and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Calories, Carbs, Proteins and Fats
| Nutrition | Per 100 Grams | Per 1 Oz |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 99 | 28 |
| Carbs | 0.9 g | 0.3 g |
| Sugar | 0 g | 0 g |
| Protein | 24 g | 7 g |
| Fat | 0.3 g | 0.1 g |
| Impact on Ketosis | Low | Low |
What is the Average Weight?
Shrimp weight can greatly vary depending on their size and the species. However, a medium-sized raw shrimp weighs approximately 6 to 7 grams.
Additional Information About shrimp
Aside from its keto-friendly profile, shrimp are also packed with antioxidants, including one called astaxanthin which delivers the pink color to the shellfish. Astaxanthin may help protect the skin from premature aging and may reduce inflammation. Shrimp is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to have numerous health benefits including anti-inflammatory properties and promoting heart health.
Other Foods To Match With
For a complete keto-friendly meal, shrimp can be matched with various low-carb foods. These can include non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or spinach, which are blanched, steamed, or sautéed and served along with a healthy fat source like olive oil or butter. Shrimp pair well with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, and salads. Adding shrimp to a spicy Keto-friendly soup could also be a delicious and satisfying option. Eating shrimp along with these low-carb foods will help you maintain your optimal macronutrient ratios.
8 Famous Keto-Friendly Dishes To Try
1. Keto Shrimp Scampi
Yes, shrimp is indeed keto-friendly. The Keto Shrimp Scampi is a ketogenic delight – light, spicy, and zesty. It’s rich in healthy fats from the olive oil and contains the nutrient-packed shrimp. Garlic and lemon zest add a flavourful punch, while the absence of traditional pasta keeps it low in carbs.
2. Keto Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Cajun Shrimp and Grits gives a ketogenic spin to a Southern classic. Spicy seasoned shrimp is complemented by creamy, cheese-filled cauliflower grits. This helps keep the dish low in carbs, making it a hearty and satisfying keto-friendly meal in spite of substituting the traditional corn grits.
3. Keto Shrimp and Avocado Salad
A Keto Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a great example of a low-carb yet satisfying meal. It pairs antioxidant-rich shrimp with fibre-filled avocado and leafy greens. A simple dressing of lemon or lime juice and extra virgin olive oil keeps the salad well within ketogenic standards.
4. Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic Butter Shrimp packs a flavorful punch despite being a simple keto dish. Shrimp is sautéed in garlic and butter, filling the dish with a maximum amount of healthy fats while keeping carb content minimal. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious meal option for a ketogenic diet.
5. Keto Shrimp Alfredo
The Keto Shrimp Alfredo replaces traditional pasta with spaghetti squash, reducing its carbohydrate content. The shrimp is smothered in a creamy, rich Alfredo sauce adding a good dose of fats – making this a comforting yet keto-appropriate dish.
6. Keto Pad Thai with Shrimp
Keto Pad Thai with Shrimp features shrimp stir-fried with a variety of vegetables in a tangy sauce. It uses shirataki noodles, a near-zero carb substitute for traditional rice noodles, making it keto-friendly while retaining the essence of a classic Pad Thai.
7. Keto Shrimp Tacos with Lettuce Wraps
Keto Shrimp Tacos use lettuce leaves instead of traditional tortillas, effectively lowering its carbohydrate content. Protein-rich, seasoned shrimp is topped with a creamy, tangy coleslaw and avocado slices. These tacos are a healthy and delicious addition to any ketogenic diet.
8. Keto Shrimp Stuffed Avocado
Shrimp Stuffed Avocado makes an excellent keto-friendly meal. Avocados are sliced and stuffed with cooked shrimp mixed with mayonnaise, bringing together high amounts of healthy fats from both ingredients. The dish is an easy, tasty option for those following a ketogenic diet.
Frequently Asked Questions about shrimp and Keto
Are shrimp keto-friendly?
Yes, shrimp are keto-friendly. Shrimp is a type of shellfish that is low in carbs, which makes it a good option for people following a ketogenic diet. A 3-ounce (85-gram) serving of shrimp has almost zero carbs. Furthermore, shrimp provide a good source of protein and healthy fats, which are important components of a balanced ketogenic diet.
How many carbs are in shrimp?
Shrimp are very low in carbs. A 3-ounce (85 grams) serving of shrimp contains about 0.2 grams of carbs. This is well within the daily carb limit for a ketogenic diet, which usually ranges from about 20 to 50 grams of net carbs per day.
Are shrimp a good source of protein for a keto diet?
Yes, shrimp are a good source of protein for a ketogenic diet. A 3-ounce (85 grams) serving of shrimp provides about 18 grams of protein. Since protein is a fundamental part of the keto diet, shrimp can be a valuable addition to a keto meal plan.
What are some good keto-friendly shrimp recipes?
There are many keto-friendly shrimp recipes available. Some of the popular ones include shrimp scampi, shrimp stir-fry, and grilled shrimp skewers. These dishes can be made by replacing high-carb ingredients with keto-friendly alternatives. For example, in shrimp stir-fries, you can use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
How can I incorporate shrimp into my keto diet?
There are many ways to incorporate shrimp into a ketogenic diet. They are a versatile ingredient and can be used in a variety of dishes. As mentioned earlier, they can be used in dishes like scampi, stir-fries, or grilled skewers. Moreover, shrimp can be cooked and eaten on their own or added to keto-friendly salads. They can also be used in soups or stews, and cooked with healthy fats like olive oil or butter for a delicious and satisfying keto-friendly meal.
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