An Agriculture expert, Mr Sunday Ido, has harped on the health benefits of crayfish, urging Nigerians to consume more of it.
Ido, an agripreneur, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Friday.
He said consumption of more crayfish was necessary as it had lot of vitamins, proteins and minerals.
“Crayfish helps promote healthy brain and combat depression. Its Omega-3 acids also promotes brain functioning and encourages strong cognitive functions. Studies recently have shown that eating crayfish regularly helps prevent the risk of Alzheimer disease.
He urged Nigerians to inculcate a healthy diet with the inclusion of crayfish, affordable seafood in their daily meals.
“Eating more seafood as part of a healthy diet is recommended in all countries’ Dietary Guidelines.
“In a time like this where we are advised daily to eat more healthy foods, incorporating crayfish into your diet is very important.
“With over 300 different species, crayfish is known for both its great taste, lot of vitamins, proteins and minerals. It is low in fat and contains only a trace of carbohydrates”.
“They are high in B vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium and phosphorus. Like most other seafood, crayfish are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help in the promotion of healthy joints and overall body health,” he said.
Ido also harped on the lucrative nature of crayfish business as he outlined specific roles the seafood played in the human body.
“Crayfish business is a very lucrative business in Nigeria and there is hardly any local soup that is complete without its addition”.
“Crayfish merchants are always in business because of its growing demand both locally and internationally. It is important to note that crayfish helps promote healthy eyesight just like snails, periwinkles, carrot and other vegetables also help promote healthy vision and healthy skin,’’ he said.
He also explained that the presence of Omega-3 fatty acids protected the skin against UV (Ultra-Violent) Rays.
“Studies have shown that this supper seafood can help promote healthy skin. Just like snails slime, eating crayfish helps deal with spots and blemishes as well as promote glowing skin”.
“Crayfish provides the body with needed vitamins. It is important to note that just a one serving of crayfish contains 30 per cent of the daily value (DV) vitamins B-12, 10 per cent of the DV for Niacin and Folate and 4 per cent DV for Riboflavin, Thiamine and Vitamin B-6.
“In essence, the B vitamins in crayfish are essential for nervous system function, turning the food you eat into energy and keeping your liver, eyes, skin and hair healthy,” Ido said.