Crabs and Health
Crab and other shellfish are good sources of chromium, which works with insulin in the metabolism of sugar helping the body to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Studies indicate chromium helps to raise the levels of HDL (or "good" cholesterol), which can reduce the risk of coronary artery disease and strokes. It is especially beneficial for diabetics.Crab and shellfish also contain goodly amounts of selenium, a trace element of critical importance that works as an antioxidant, detoxifying potentially carcinogenic substances such as mercury, cadmium, and arsenic which could lead to tumors. Studies have shown that test patients with the highest blood selenium levels have the lowest cancer rates. It also helps protect against heart and circulatory diseases.
Lysate, an extract of the horseshoe crab's blue blood is used in the fight against cancer and to detect spinal meningitis.
When using vitamins and minerals as holistic treatments at home, you MUST first consult your physician as it is easy to overdose yourself to a toxic level.
More About Crabs and Crab Recipes:
• Crab Selection and Storage• What is a she-crab? FAQ
• Crab Varieties
• Crab Terminology
• Peekytoe Crabs
• Crabs and Health
• Crab History
• Crab Recipes
Crab Photos © 2008 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.
