If you're looking for a low calorie seafood option, 1 medium clam (mixed species) only contains 11 calories. But that's not all these little gems have to offer.
In addition to being low in calories, clams are also a great source of protein. In fact, just one medium clam contains around 1 gram of protein. They're also a good source of iron, which is important for maintaining healthy blood oxygen levels.
Whether you're looking to add more seafood to your diet or switch up your usual protein sources, clams are a fresh and natural choice with a long list of health benefits.
Low Calorie Count
As mentioned, 1 medium clam only contains 11 calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their caloric intake. Clams can also be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from steaming to grilling, so you can indulge in your favourite flavours without worrying about the calorie count. Whether you're looking to maintain your weight or lose a few pounds, adding clams to your diet is a delicious and nutritious way to do so.
High Protein Content
In addition to being low in calories, clams are also a great source of protein. One medium clam contains around 1 gram of protein, so adding them to your meal can help you meet your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining healthy skin, and supporting your immune system. With their high protein content, clams are a great choice for those looking to add more protein to their diet, whether you're an athlete looking to build muscle or just trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Good Source of Iron
Not only are clams low in calories and high in protein, but they're also a good source of iron. Iron is essential for maintaining healthy blood oxygen levels, and a lack of iron can lead to anaemia, fatigue, and other health issues. Clams contain around 20% of your daily recommended intake of iron per serving. For those who struggle with iron deficiency or anaemia, adding clams to your diet is a great way to boost your iron intake and support your overall health.
Fresh and Natural
Clams are a fresh and natural seafood option that's minimally processed and free from preservatives and additives. They can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from raw to cooked, and can be prepared with a wide range of herbs and spices to suit your taste. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to add more natural foods to your diet, clams are a great choice.
Versatility in Cooking
Clams are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes, from soups and stews to pastas and salads. They can be steamed, grilled, boiled, or roasted, and can be flavoured with a variety of herbs and spices to suit your taste. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, clams are a great ingredient to experiment with and can add a new level of flavour to your favourite dishes.
Health Benefits
In addition to being low in calories, high in protein, and a good source of iron, clams have a number of other health benefits. They're rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium, all of which are important for maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Regularly consuming seafood like clams has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, improved brain function, and better eye health.
Sustainable Seafood Option
Clams are a sustainable seafood option that's harvested in a way that minimises damage to the ocean environment. They're also relatively easy to farm, which helps reduce pressure on wild populations. By choosing to include clams in your diet, you can support sustainable seafood practices and help protect the ocean and its inhabitants.
Ocean-Friendly Harvesting
Clams are typically harvested using sustainable methods that minimise damage to the ocean environment. Hand harvesting and diving are common harvesting methods that help ensure that only mature clams are harvested and that the ocean floor is not disturbed. By choosing to consume clams that have been harvested using these methods, you can be sure that you're supporting ocean-friendly practices.
Popular Seafood Choice
Clams are a popular seafood choice around the world and are enjoyed in a variety of cultures and cuisines. From traditional clam chowder to flavourful Italian pasta dishes, clams are a versatile ingredient that can add a new level of flavour to any meal. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to mix up your usual meal routine, clams are a great choice.
Versatile in Recipes
As mentioned, clams are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes. Whether you're looking to add a pop of flavour to your favourite pasta dish or create a new seafood soup recipe, clams are a great choice. They can be prepared in a variety of ways and can be flavoured with a range of herbs and spices to suit your taste.
The humble clam is a nutritional powerhouse that's low in calories and high in protein, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Whether you're looking to add more seafood to your diet or switch up your usual protein sources, clams are a fresh and natural choice with a long list of health benefits.
5 FAQ About Medium Clams (Mixed Species)
1. How many calories are in one medium clam?
There are 11 calories in one medium clam.
2. What species of clams are considered "mixed species"?
"Mixed species" refers to a variety of clam species that are commonly harvested and sold together, including littleneck clams, cherrystone clams, and topneck clams.
3. Are medium clams a good source of protein?
Yes, medium clams are a good source of protein, with one medium clam containing about 1 gram of protein.
4. What is the best way to prepare medium clams?
Medium clams can be prepared in a variety of ways, including steaming, baking, grilling, or sautéing. They are often used in dishes such as clam chowder, pasta with clam sauce, or clams casino.
5. Are medium clams sustainable to eat?
It depends on how they are harvested. Clams that are farmed or harvested using sustainable practices are considered a more environmentally-friendly seafood choice than those that are taken from wild, unmanaged populations. Look for clams that are certified by programs such as Seafood Watch or the Marine Stewardship Council.