From health benefits to types and culinary uses, things you should know about lobsters – Times of India

Lobsters, who belong to the crustaceans family, are marine animals that have five pair of legs out of which three of them are clawed. They are popularly enjoyed as luxury seafood around the world and also consumed as a staple in many communities. A lobster comprises of two main body parts that is the cephalothorax and abdomen. The head of a lobster comprises of the antennae which they use to sense their surroundings. Usually a lobsters colour can range from greenish blue to reddish orange and brown but they can also be found in a variety of different colours. It is said that lobsters can live up to 45 years or more and the longevity of different species of lobsters is calculated or guessed on the basis of its size and other important characteristics.

Numerous species of lobsters exist but there are some popular ones about which we must know and some of them are clawed lobsters, Slipper lobsters, Maine lobsters, Squat lobsters, Spiny lobsters, Furry lobsters. The most popular lobsters which are widely consumed are the Maine lobsters, which are popular for their claw meat and tails. These lobsters are commonly available in restaurants and most probably will be the ones served to you on your plates. Both Spiny lobsters and Slipper lobsters lack the claws of their front body and have thick and large antennas. Slipper lobsters do not often hide in holes but cover themselves in mud during the time of day.

Lobsters have a very high content of protein along with amino acids in them that help to build protein. Lobsters can be consumed when trying to lose weight as it will help us to shed weight by giving us a feeling that we are full and will also boost our metabolism. While our body is in the process of processing proteins, it tends to burn more calories as compared to the case in carbohydrates and fats. Protein in lobsters promotes the feeling of fullness in us by increasing the production of those hormones in our body that help to reduce hunger.

Omega-3 acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid can help to protect us from heart diseases and seafood that tend to be high on these acids can become an effective shield. Lobsters are rich in both EPA and DHA and may help in lowering our blood pressure levels along with blood cholesterol levels. Doctors often recommend the consumption of foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids as it helps in the reduction of heart diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce the effect of inflammation in our bodies and thus are essential to protect us from heart problems.

DHA, which has been mentioned above as well, is a necessary compound that is required for the healthy functioning of the cell membrane and is also an important part of the brain cells. If there is a deficiency of omega-3 in our body then it can encourage the process of brain aging. Omega-3 rich diets can help to prevent health issues like depression, Alzheimers disease and dementia. Lobsters are rich in vitamin B12 and if we have low levels of the same then we might be prone to diseases that are linked to low vitamin B12 levels. Therefore, lobsters can be important seafood rich in omega-3 that can prove to be healthy for our brain.

Lobsters are usually served steamed or boiled along with their shells that are cracked using nutcrackers. The meat of the lobsters is picked out with lobster forks. Lobster meat is usually served with butter and lemon juice. Lobster meat can also be used in soups, bisque and stews. The lobsters blend perfectly with herbs, spices and sauces and are often sauted with the same. Lobsters are also grilled and sometimes used in curries as well. Lobsters do not take a lot of time to cook. They usually take 8-10 minutes to cook completely. Sometimes they are not served as whole but certain parts of their bodies are cooked such as tails and claws.

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From health benefits to types and culinary uses, things you should know about lobsters - Times of India