Are Scallops High In Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in the blood. The blood carries cholesterol through your body. The body produces needed cholesterol. In addition, cholesterol comes from the food that you intake. The excessive consumption of saturated fat can lead to high cholesterol. Saturated fat is the primary source of producing cholesterol. Therefore, people with high cholesterol are conscious of their foods’ selection, quality, and quantity. High cholesterol may restrict the consumption of a particular type of food. 

Scallops – Are Scallops Healthy Or Unhealthy?

Do you like to eat seafood? Which is your favorite shellfish? When it comes to shellfish, most people are preferred to eat dishes made with scallops. The mouthwatering scallop recipes grab your attention. But what if you have cholesterol? Can you eat scallops with high cholesterol? Read the entire article to understand more about scallops and high cholesterol.

Cholesterol Level in Scallops

Don’t be too cautious about consuming scallops. You can eat scallops even if you have cholesterol. Because scallops contain low amounts of cholesterol. A 100g scallops contain 53 mg of cholesterol. It is low in saturated fat, therefore you can consume scallops at a moderate level. Some foods extremely boost your cholesterol level. But when it comes to scallops, you can consume this shellfish without any tension. Scallops are safe to eat twice a week.

You have to remember that, the way you prepare the scallops is crucial whether it affects cholesterol or not. It’s best to consume cooked scallops. It is one of the heart-healthy ways to eat scallops.

Deep frying can change the fat content in the food. Therefore, frying and added fat are not recommended while making scallops.

What are the health benefits of Scallops?

Scallops are filled with impressive health benefits. Just like shrimp, including a moderate amount of scallops in your diet is beneficial to your health. Following are the features of scallops that contribute to the health benefits.

• The high amount of unsaturated fat

Scallops contain a high amount of ‘good’ fats. The high amounts of polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats can improve cholesterol levels in the body. The high amount of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as thrombosis, stroke, atherosclerosis, etc.

• The active presence of omega-3 fatty acids

Scallops are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil can reduce the excessive fat in the blood. It significantly reduces the number of triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and slightly improves good cholesterol. The active presence of omega-3 fatty acids in scallops reduces cardiovascular diseases. Healthy fats support the functioning of the nervous system, regulate heartbeat, and support your memory.

In addition, scallops are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. That’s why scallops are considered one of the healthiest seafood. Scallops are a great source of antioxidants. It helps to prevent a range of chronic diseases. It is also used as a medicine for diabetes, cancer, and indigestion. Still, research is being conducted to find the nutrition content and health benefits of scallops.

How to cook Scallops in a healthy way?

Scallops don’t boost your bad cholesterol. But the way you choose to make scallops are important. Many recipes made with scallops use cream sauces for a delicious taste. But adding those processed ingredients can boost bad cholesterol. So, the more simply you cook raw scallops can make a healthy life. Here are the different ways to cook scallops in a healthy way.

Baking

Baking is one of the healthy ways to cook scallops. Cook the scallops on high flame and moisten them. It’s better to consume without adding any processed fat, sugar, or salt. You can sprinkle lemon juice or pepper for a better taste. 

Broiling

Broiling is the easiest way and healthiest way to cook scallops. Pour some olive oil into the scallops and don’t make them too fried. Quickly saute under intense heat and remove to a plate. Olive oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and it can help you to balance your cholesterol level. 

Pan-frying

This method of cooking allows the insides to heat to creamy perfection. Heat the pan and pour some olive oil. add some garlic for giving awesome flavor to the scallops. Put all the scallops once and cook for two to three minutes on high flame. 

How to store Scallops?

It is crucial to know about the proper storage of scallops. If you purchase live scallops, then you should keep them in the refrigerator until it ready to use. If you have fresh scallops, you should not store them in the refrigerator for more than three days. It’s better to cook them within one day. If you want a fresh scallop recipe, cook them as soon as possible. Do not keep the scallops in water.  Scallops can last up to three months if you place them in a freezer. If you are not planning to cook the scallops, then cover them with a paper towel and keep them in the freezer. The season for fresh sea scallops is considered from October to march.

Heart-healthy Scallops Recipes

Scallops are good for your heart health. You can make a wide variety of dishes using this shellfish. Let’s look at some of the mouthwatering cuisines made with scallops.

• Red pepper scallops

Red pepper scallops are one of the health-friendly recipes. It uses only 5 ingredients to make this delicious cuisine. It uses two tablespoons of olive oil for better taste.

• Paleo-seared scallops with mango-pineapple salsa

The recipe uses ghee for sauteing scallops and pineapples. Ghee contains saturated fat. So, using a small amount of ghee is better for your health.

• Orzo salad with scallops

This fresh-looking recipe is best to pair with salads. It uses two tablespoons of olive oil. The ingredient is a great source of monounsaturated fats. It is one of the finest dishes that suits your heart health.

Conclusion

Scallops are rich in nutritional value. You can eat them without adding high-fat ingredients. Scallops itself doesn’t contain high saturated fats. So, you can eat cooked scallops sprinkled with onion or lemon juice. Be careful while purchasing fresh scallops and cooking healthy recipes using this tasty shellfish.