Prawns omega 3
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Prawns: Nutritional Benefits and Health Implications
Nutrient Composition of Prawns: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Prawns are a rich source of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which are essential for maintaining good health. Studies have shown that prawns contain significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)1 3. For instance, the new variety of ridgetail white prawn (Exopalaemon carinicauda) has been found to have higher levels of DHA and EPA compared to its wild-type counterpart, making it a promising natural source of omega-3 PUFAs1.
Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Prawns
Cardiovascular Health
Omega-3 fatty acids are well-known for their cardiovascular benefits. Research indicates that adequate intake of these fatty acids can help optimize cardiovascular health by reducing triglycerides, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing the risk of heart disease2 5. A study comparing the effects of prawn consumption to white fish found that prawns were associated with a decrease in ApoB and plasma triglycerides, which are markers of cardiovascular health2.
Nutritional Value and Fatty Acid Profile
The nutritional value of prawns is further highlighted by their favorable omega-6/omega-3 ratio and PUFA/SFA ratio. For example, the freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium amazonicum) has an omega-6/omega-3 ratio of 0.3 and a PUFA/SFA ratio of 1.6, indicating a high nutritional value3. These ratios are important as they suggest a balanced intake of essential fatty acids, which is crucial for reducing inflammation and promoting overall health.
Comparative Analysis of Different Prawn Varieties
Ridgetail White Prawn vs. Wild-Type Prawn
The new variety of ridgetail white prawn (Kesuhong No. 1) not only has higher levels of omega-3 PUFAs but also a better PUFA/SFA ratio and a lower omega-6/omega-3 ratio compared to the wild-type prawn. This makes it a superior choice for those looking to increase their intake of omega-3 fatty acids1.
Freshwater Prawn (Macrobrachium amazonicum)
The freshwater prawn is another excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, with significant amounts of EPA, DHA, and other omega-3 fatty acids. Its high omega-3 content and favorable fatty acid profile make it a valuable addition to a healthy diet3.
Conclusion
Prawns are a highly nutritious seafood option, rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA. These fatty acids are essential for cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Different varieties of prawns, including the new ridgetail white prawn and freshwater prawn, offer significant health benefits due to their high omega-3 content and favorable fatty acid profiles. Incorporating prawns into your diet can be a delicious and effective way to boost your intake of these essential nutrients.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Comparative study on nutrient composition and quality evaluation in a new variety and wild‐typed ridgetail white prawn ( Exopalaemon carinicauda )
The new variety of ridgetail white prawn (Exopalaemon carinicauda) Kesuhong No. 1 has higher content of omega-3 PUFA and improved muscle quality, making it a promising natural source of omega-3 PUFA with high nutritional value.
Composição centesimal e perfil de ácidos graxos do camarão-d'água-doce
Freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium amazonicum) has a good nutritional value due to its high omega-3 and polyunsaturated fatty acids profiles.
Bioactive fatty acids in mantis shrimp, crab and caramote prawn: Their content and distribution among the main lipid classes
Crab is the most valuable dietary source of omega-3 fatty acids, with a higher content than caramote prawn and mantis shrimp, and the distribution of these fatty acids differs among the studied crustaceans.
Omega-3 fatty acids for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease.
Increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake from fish and plants shows little or no effect on all-cause mortality, cardiovascular events, and stroke risk.
Meta-Analysis
Very Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedOmega-3 fatty acids for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease.
Increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake from fish and plants does not show a significant reduction in all-cause mortality, cardiovascular events, or arrhythmia risk.
Meta-AnalysisVery Rigorous JournalHighly CitedRelationship between essential fatty acid requirements of aquatic animals and the capacity for bioconversion of linolenic acid to highly unsaturated fatty acids.
Linolenic acid bioconversion to highly unsaturated fatty acids is intensively regulated in rainbow trout, moderately in ayu, eel, and prawn, and slightly in red sea bream, rockfish, and globefish.
Non-RCT
Animal StudyHighly CitedGrowth responses and fatty acid composition of juvenile prawns (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) fed a prepared ration augmented with shrimp head oil
Feeding juvenile prawns with a diet enriched with shrimp head oil significantly increases their growth, biomass, and food utilization efficiency, while conserving 3 fatty acids and carotenoid pigments.
Highly CitedThe effects of a fat-free diet and compounded diets supplemented with various oils on moult, growth and fatty acid composition of prawn, Penaeus japonicus Bate
A fat-free diet and compounded diets containing linolenic acids improve prawn growth and moult rate, while sardine and clam oils enhance 3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels.
Highly Cited