If you like calamari, you may be in luck. It has more health benefits than you’ve probably ever realized (or thought about). Now, when most people think about calamari, the first thing that comes to mind is likely the fried appetizer you get at your favorite restaurant, with marinara sauce on the side.
That’s definitely a delicious dish, but probably not the best way to let the natural health benefits of calamari shine.
So, why make a blog post about…squid? It’s interesting to see how something you may have eaten in one form or another can actually be beneficial to you when it’s cooked the right way. So, again, if you like calamari (the non-fried version), this gives you an excuse to eat more! If you’ve never tried it, it’s a great way to make a positive change to your diet.
It’s High in Protein, Vitamins, and Minerals
The nutritional value of calamari is through the roof. It’s low in calories and a great source of lean protein, which can help you to build muscles and get stronger. It also contains Vitamin B-12, iron, copper, and potassium. Those nutrients help to do everything from boost the performance of your blood cells to strengthen your immune system and even make your bones stronger.
It Can Help to Prevent Cancer
You’ve probably never thought a little squid could be a cancer fighter, but it’s true! Calamari is full of antioxidants. Those antioxidants strengthen the cancer-fighting cells within your body, and they also help to fight free radicals that are in the air.
It Can Help With Anemia
If you’ve been diagnosed with anemia or you typically have low iron in your blood, calamari should be a regular staple in your diet. Anemia is caused by a lack of blood cells. The copper that’s found in squid can help to fight the disease, and reduce your symptoms if you already have it.
Be Cautious With Cholesterol
The dietary guidelines put in place by the government don’t call for a restriction on how much cholesterol you should have in a day. But, if you have a family history of high cholesterol, or you’ve struggled with it yourself, you probably watch out for foods with higher cholesterol levels.
Calamari is on the high side when it comes to cholesterol, so if you do have any kind of history with that issue, you should limit your portion sizes of this otherwise very healthy treasure of the sea. But, don’t cut it out of your diet completely! By enjoying it in moderation, you can still reap the benefits.
So, next time you have a craving for those fried rings from your favorite restaurant, opt for a fresher version of calamari, instead. You’ll feel good knowing you’re doing something great for your body, and you’ll love all of the fresh, delicious recipes you can make with squid, too! Don’t be afraid to experiment to determine which calamari preparation is your favorite. It’s a great option for replacing fattier, less-healthy proteins from your diet.
I’ve only tried calamari once and I wasn’t a fan of it but I’ve heard it depends on how you cook it . After reading this I’ll definitely have to give it another chance .
Great recipe. I always get the calamari in the frozen departments ready to cook in the oven. I’ll try this one.
I have never ate calamari. Its great that it has so many health benefits
Calamari is amazing when cooked right. When cooked wrong though, can be very chewy. One of my favorite places for Calamari is Olive Garden. It’s usually cooked good but the best part of it is the garlic dipping sauce. Drooling a bit just thinking about it.
My husband and I love calamari. I had no idea it had so many health benefits.
My son might like this, but I don’t think I would.
These are terrific health benefits, I haven’t had calamari for many years, will have to try it again, thx very much for this helpful information!
If this is similar to oysters, I wouldn’t eat them unless they were breaded and fried!
I actually don’t mind calamari, but it all depends on how it’s cooked, I’ve had some real good calamari and some that was so chewy you couldn’t eat it
Nothing is better than well cooked calamari. If it is rubbery, it is over cooked or not fresh. Send it back!
This is good info to know!
I used to eat calamari a lot when I was younger with my father’s side of the family. They are Italian. I knew it was some sort of fish, but I never knew of all of its health benefits. I pinned this. Thank you for sharing!!
I love that it lowers cholesterol!
I love Calamari! I had no idea of all the health benefits. Informative article.
I love calamari but my kids aren’t yet a fan of the texture. We’ll keep trying it.
I have never eaten it myself. I may have to start because it has some great pros!