Octopus is a specie that does not have a hard shell. It belongs to the mollusk family which also includes squid, clams, oysters, nautilus, and mussels. They are high in protein and rich in many essential vitamins and minerals. The most amazing fact about octopuses is that they can change their skin color by adapting to the environment due to the presence of tiny pigments called chromatophores. Their lifespan is of 4 to 5 years. For their nutritional facts, people are including octopus in their menu.
Octopus Nutrition Facts
Octopus is a healthy source of lean protein which is low in fat, carbohydrates, and calories. They are loaded with amino acids, microminerals, and micronutrients like vitamins. A 100g serving of cooked octopus contains:
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
- Calories: 162 kcal
- Calcium: 105 mg
- Carbohydrates: 4.2 g
- Proteins: 29.5 g
- Fat: 2.05 g
- Sodium: 455 mg
- Potassium: 625 mg
- Iron: 9.52 mg
- Magnesium: 55 mg
- Phosphorus: 275 mg
- Zinc: 3.35 mg
- Vitamin C: 5 mg
Health Benefits Of Octopus
1. Can Lower Plasma Fat Levels
According to a study it has been stated that octopus can lower plasma lipid levels and prevent plaque formation in the arteries. This will eventually reduce the risk of cardiovascular conditions.
2. Rich In Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The octopus is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These fatty acids are extremely important for fetus development, maintaining cardiovascular health, and improving cognitive function in an individual with mild Alzheimer’s disease.
3. Balance Pressure
Omega-3 fatty acids are important fats your body uses to make cell membranes and hormones that control blood clotting, blood pressure, and inflammation. It lowers the chances of hypertension and heart ailments. While it contains vasodilator properties which provide relief from the tension of blood vessels.
4. Brain Health
Phosphorus is necessary for the cells of the brain as well as its functions. The proper amount of phosphorus enhances brain functions and cognitive development. And deficiency of phosphorus increases the chances of cognitive malfunction as well as dementia. While the octopus is rich in phosphorus thus promoting brain health.
5. Hair Benefits
Protein is a substance that is important to maintain healthy hair and also to prevent damage. According to a study, protein has a vital role in the growth of hair. Because of all these benefits, it is even used for the production of conditioners.
6. Good Source Of Healthy Unsaturated Fats
The healthy unsaturated omega-3 fatty acids contained in octopus can help prevent heart disease. However, a diet rich in sources of omega-3s such as octopus and other types of fish has been associated with a lower risk for some cancers, protection of cognitive function, and a healthy gut microbiome. Where gut microbiome is a group of healthy bacteria that live in our intestines. This microbiome plays important in immunity, inflammation, and disease prevention.
7. Have Antibacterial Effects
The suckers present in octopus arms have a peptide called OctoPartenopin that is active against many gram-positive and negative bacteria. Mainly Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas. Where this peptide can be used to develop antibacterial agents and food preservatives.
8. Rich with Antioxidants
Octopus has essential amino acids and antioxidants. That can be used to formulate functional foods. A diet rich in antioxidants helps strengthen the immune system to improve the body’s disease-fighting abilities. The antioxidants neutralize free radicals and even help reduce inflammation.