Clams are a delicious seafood option that provide plenty of essential vitamins and minerals. Their low calorie count and omega 3 fatty acids make them an excellent addition to any diet. They are also rich in protein and a source of calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, selenium, vitamin C and copper. However, they contain high amounts of sodium, so it is best to avoid them if you are salt-sensitive.
Shellfish like clams, oysters and mussels are generally safe to eat when they have been cooked properly. They should be thoroughly cleaned and cooked to prevent contamination with bacteria such as vibrio vulnificus, which can cause serious illness in some people. It is also important to note that clams can be contaminated with mercury, a toxic element that can cause nerve damage and other serious health problems in some people. The mercury in clams is a result of the fact that they filter water to get their food. Therefore, it is important to only consume clams from reliable sources that are open about where they get their shellfish and have stringent quality control processes in place.
A cup of steamed clams contains 2.86 grams of fat. According to the Mayo Clinic, this amount is within the recommended range for a healthy diet. However, it is also important to remember that consuming clams with added butter or other oils will significantly increase the fat content of your meal.
Clams are a good source of protein, which is an important building block for the body. A single serving of clams provides over 100 percent of the recommended daily value for protein, including all nine essential amino acids. Amino acids are responsible for many important bodily functions, including the growth and repair of muscles and tissues. They are also involved in energy production and the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
The high levels of potassium in clams help maintain normal blood pressure and regulate heart function. They are also a great source of vitamin A, which is required by the body for healthy skin, vision and bone development. It is important to be cautious when eating clams because they can also contain large amounts of cholesterol, which can be harmful for some people.
If you’re a vegetarian, clams can be a good alternative to beef or chicken. One cup of steamed clams contains about 11.5 grams of protein, which is a good amount for a vegetarian diet. However, it’s best to limit the amount of clams you eat to a couple of times per week.
Clams are also a good source of zinc and selenium, which are both important for men’s health. Zinc is required for the production of testosterone, and selenium helps produce healthy sperm.
Despite their many benefits, clams should not be eaten by babies and toddlers. They can be choking hazards due to their size and slippery texture. They should be finely chopped before being fed to young children and eaten only under the supervision of a caregiver.