One of the most popular seafoods, crabs differs in tastes as they vary in kinds. Crabs are rich in minerals and vitamins that are all deemed healthy for the body. There are different variations of crabs. The Blue crabs are small crustaceans that can be found along the Atlantic coast they are popular because of their soft shell, and they can be eaten along with their shells.

Dungeness crabs, on the other hand, are large and meaty. They are mostly found along the Atlantic coast. King crabs are the ones that have most meat on their legs rather than on their claws while stone crabs, which are found in Texas and Florida, are usually cooked frozen. There are also the red crabs—found along the continental shelf, they are small in size but has a meaty flesh.

Here are the health benefits of crabs:

* Due to being very low in calories and fat, crabs are healthy for heart. Despite of their low calorie content, crabs make for a filling       main course dish. A four ounce serving of crab meat contains only 98 calories and under two grams of fat.
* Crabs are a very rich source of lean protein, which makes them a perfect high protein alternative for athletes, sportsperson and     body builders. They are also a good option for diabetics, as they are free of carbohydrates.
* Crabs are a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary for heart health and help to lower triglycerides and blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. The Omega-3 fatty acids contained in crabs are also believed to boost the immune system.
* Eating a seafood rich diet can expose the body to high amounts of mercury. However, mid-Atlantic blue crab contains a very low amount of mercury, which makes it a safer seafood choice.
* Crabs are a good source of chromium, which helps in the metabolism of sugar. It helps the body to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Chromium basically works with insulin to regulate the sugar levels of body.
* Crabs contain selenium, a trace mineral that helps to reduce oxidative damage to the cells and tissues. A diet containing crabs provides enough selenium to the body to keep these systems functioning.

They are also great source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin B 12, zinc and copper. These vitamins are important for the body’s nerve functions.