Shrimp

Overview

Shrimp are shellfish that provide selenium, iodine, vitamin B12, and other trace minerals, together with highly digestible protein. These nutrients support neurotransmitter synthesis, antioxidant enzyme systems, and thyroid function within a broader seafood rotation [1].

Within the BRAIN Diet framework, as with other shellfish, sourcing and preparation influence both safety and sustainability, so shrimp are best used as one component of a varied marine protein pattern rather than a sole staple [2].

Key Nutritional Highlights

• Provides complete, highly digestible protein. [1]
• Commonly contributes selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12, though levels vary by species. [2]
• EPA/DHA content is highly species-dependent; oily fish are usually higher than lean fish or shellfish.
• Often lower in saturated fat than many fatty red-meat patterns when minimally processed.
• Nutritional profile and risk context depend on processing method (fresh vs salted/smoked/cured).

Food Context

Synergies

• Part of diverse seafood intake

Sourcing

• Sustainable when sourced responsibly

Preparation

• Best prepared with gentle cooking
• Supports protein and mineral goals

Essential Amino Acid Profile

This food provides a complete essential amino acid profile typical of animal proteins.

Recipes

no recipes found

Nutrient Tables (per 100 g)

Core nutrients

Nutrient	Amount per 100 g	% RDA per 100 g
Energy	47 kcal	—
Protein	11.8 g	—
Total fat	0 g	—
Saturated fat	0 g	—
Carbohydrates	0 g	—
Fibre	0 g	—

Key micronutrients

Nutrient	Amount per 100 g	% RDA per 100 g
Iron	0.4 mg	2.3%
Calcium	71 mg	7.1%

Reference intakes: US Dietary Reference Intakes for adults (19–50 years; using the higher of male/female values where they differ).

Data provenance (core / micronutrient panel): USDA FoodData Central, SHRIMP, FDC ID 1899566, API, per 100 g edible portion, last checked 2026-03-14

Substances

Substances in this food: editorial (Overview / literature) plus analytical (nutrition table).

4 substances in this food

Se^2-

Selenium

Antioxidant enzyme cofactor (GPx); supports redox balance

Zn²⁺

Zinc

Cofactor in neurotransmission and antioxidant enzymes; dopamine modulation

Fe²⁺

Iron

Oxygen transport; dopamine synthesis (tyrosine hydroxylase cofactor)

Ca²⁺

Calcium

Bone health; neurotransmission; interacts with vitamin D and K2

References

[1] Seafood including shellfish contributes EPA and DHA relevant to neuronal membrane composition. McNamara & Carlson 2006. Role of omega-3 fatty acids in brain development and function: Potential implications for the pathogenesis and prevention of psychopathology

[2] Shellfish provides complete highly digestible protein with key micronutrients. Gao et al. 2022. Protein intake from different sources and cognitive decline over 9 years in community-dwelling older adults