How many calories are in five shrimp?

The calorie count for five shrimp varies significantly based on their size and preparation method. For example, five cooked large shrimp contain approximately 33 calories, while five cooked medium shrimp have around 36 calories, and five raw medium shrimp contain only about 21 calories. This difference highlights the importance of accounting for both size and cooking methods when tracking your intake.

Quick Summary

The calories in five shrimp depend on size and cooking method. Five cooked large shrimp contain about 33 calories, while five medium cooked shrimp have roughly 36 calories. Raw medium shrimp contain approximately 21 calories.

Key Points

• Size Varies Calories: The calorie count in five shrimp is not a fixed number and varies based on the size of the individual shrimp (e.g., small, medium, large, jumbo).

• Preparation Method is Crucial: Simple cooking methods like steaming or boiling keep the calorie count low, while frying or adding heavy sauces significantly increases it.

• Low-Calorie Protein Source: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making it an ideal food for weight management and overall health.

• Rich in Essential Nutrients: Beyond protein, shrimp provides valuable nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and omega-3 fatty acids.

• Healthy Cooking is Key: To maximize the health benefits and minimize calories, opt for preparation methods that do not rely on excessive fats or breading.

Calorie Breakdown of Five Shrimp

When counting calories, a precise figure for five shrimp is important, but it is not a static number. The exact calorie total depends on several variables, primarily the size of the shrimp and how it is prepared. Lean, moist-cooked shrimp, such as steamed or boiled, will always have a lower calorie count than those cooked with added fats, like oil or butter. Understanding the difference is key to keeping track of your dietary goals.

Impact of Shrimp Size on Calories

The most significant factor influencing the calorie count for a fixed number of shrimp is their size. The common numerical labels on shrimp packaging refer to the average number of shrimp per pound. Smaller shrimp mean more units per pound, while larger ones mean fewer. Consequently, a handful of jumbo shrimp will contain more calories than the same number of small or medium ones.

Here is a breakdown of calories for five shrimp based on their size, assuming they are cooked with moist heat like steaming or boiling:

• Small Shrimp: One small shelled shrimp contains about 6 calories. Thus, five small shrimp would be approximately 30 calories.
• Medium Shrimp: A single medium shelled shrimp averages around 7 calories. This means five medium cooked shrimp are roughly 35 calories.
• Large Shrimp: Each large shelled shrimp is closer to 9–10 calories. A serving of five cooked large shrimp contains about 33-50 calories, with one source specifically citing 33 calories for five cooked large shrimp.
• Jumbo Shrimp: Jumbo shrimp can have up to 14 calories each. Five jumbo shrimp would contain roughly 70 calories.

How Preparation Method Affects Calorie Count

Cooking method is another critical factor. While shrimp are naturally low in calories, adding oils, batter, and sauces can drastically increase the caloric density. For those aiming for the lowest calorie option, simple preparations are best.

• Boiled or Steamed: This is the most calorie-efficient method. As shown above, five medium boiled shrimp have about 36 calories.
• Grilled: Grilling is also a low-calorie option, especially if done with a simple spice rub instead of heavy oil. Five medium grilled shrimp would have a very similar calorie count to boiled ones.
• Fried: Frying significantly boosts the calorie count. Breaded and fried shrimp can have 25–40 calories per large piece, which means a serving of five could easily exceed 150 calories.
• Sautéed: Sautéing in butter or oil adds calories. For example, a small amount of added fat can increase the total for five shrimp. For example, five cooked large shrimp with minimal oil is about 33 calories.

Nutritional Comparison: Shrimp vs. Other Proteins

Shrimp is known for being a lean protein source, especially when compared to some other common protein options. A side-by-side comparison reveals just how low in calories shrimp really is, making it a great choice for those managing their weight.

Food (3 oz / 85g serving)	Calories	Protein	Saturated Fat
Cooked Shrimp	~85 kcal	~20g	<1g
Cooked Chicken Breast	~140 kcal	~26g	~1g
Cooked Steak (Sirloin)	~180-230 kcal	~25g	5-7g
Tuna (Canned in water)	~99 kcal	~22g	<1g

The Health Benefits of Eating Shrimp

Beyond being a low-calorie protein, shrimp is packed with other important nutrients.

• Rich in Selenium: Shrimp is an excellent source of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against cell damage.
• High in Vitamin B12: This vitamin is crucial for nerve function and red blood cell production.
• Source of Phosphorus: Phosphorus is a key mineral for building and maintaining strong bones.
• Contains Astaxanthin: Shrimp contains the antioxidant astaxanthin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation.
• Supports Brain Health: The healthy fats and nutrients in shrimp, like choline, are beneficial for cognitive function.
• Low in Saturated Fat: While it has dietary cholesterol, shrimp is very low in saturated fat, which is the primary driver of blood cholesterol levels.

How to Incorporate Five Shrimp into a Healthy Diet

There are numerous ways to enjoy five shrimp while keeping your meal healthy and low in calories. For instance, you could add five steamed shrimp to a salad for a protein boost. You could also include them in a light vegetable stir-fry or skewer them for grilling with a lemon-herb marinade. The key is to focus on simple cooking methods and avoid heavy sauces or deep-frying to keep the overall calorie count down. When choosing shrimp, consider wild-caught options for their typically lower saturated fat content compared to some farm-raised varieties. By being mindful of preparation, five shrimp can be a nutritious and guilt-free addition to your meal plan.

Conclusion

The calorie content of five shrimp is relatively low, making it an excellent option for those focused on weight management. The exact number depends on the size of the shrimp and the cooking method, but a serving typically falls between 30 and 70 calories. Opting for simple preparation methods like steaming or grilling will yield the lowest calorie result. As a lean protein source rich in vital nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and phosphorus, shrimp offers numerous health benefits beyond its low-calorie appeal. It is a versatile and nutritious food that can easily be incorporated into a balanced diet. For those looking to learn more about seafood nutrition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture provides comprehensive information on its website.

Keypoints

• Calorie Fluctuation: The calorie count for five shrimp is not fixed but depends on their size and how they are prepared, ranging from roughly 30 to 70 calories.
• Cooking Method Matters: Steaming or boiling shrimp keeps the calorie count low, while frying can significantly increase it by adding unhealthy fats.
• Lean Protein Source: Shrimp is a very lean source of protein, with approximately 20 grams per 3-ounce serving, making it an excellent choice for weight management.
• Rich in Nutrients: In addition to protein, shrimp provides essential nutrients, including selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and choline.
• Heart-Healthy Option: Despite its dietary cholesterol, shrimp is low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy choice when prepared simply.
• Weight Management Friendly: The combination of low calories and high protein helps increase satiety, which can aid in weight loss and maintenance efforts.
• Versatile Ingredient: Five shrimp can be easily added to salads, stir-fries, or grilled dishes to enhance flavor and nutritional value without adding excess calories.

Faqs

• Are shrimp good for weight loss? Yes, shrimp are excellent for weight loss due to being low in calories and high in lean protein, which helps you feel full longer.
• Does the size of the shrimp change the calorie count? Yes, the size significantly impacts the calorie count. For example, five jumbo shrimp will contain more calories than five medium shrimp because they are larger and have more mass.
• What is the healthiest way to cook shrimp? The healthiest methods are steaming, boiling, or grilling, as they require little to no added fat, keeping the calorie count low.
• Are fried shrimp still considered healthy? Frying shrimp, especially with breading, adds a significant amount of fat and calories, making it a less healthy option than other preparation methods like steaming or grilling.
• Do shrimp contain cholesterol? Yes, shrimp do contain dietary cholesterol, but current research suggests that dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol levels for most people than saturated fat.
• Is the nutritional value of shrimp affected by cooking? The primary nutritional change with cooking is the addition of calories from fats if you are frying or sautéing. The inherent protein and mineral content remain largely the same.
• How many calories are in five raw shrimp? Five raw medium shrimp contain approximately 21 calories. The calorie count increases slightly during cooking due to moisture loss.
• Is shrimp better for you than chicken? Both are good sources of lean protein, but shrimp typically has fewer calories and less fat per 3-ounce serving than chicken, making it a slightly leaner option.
• Can I eat five shrimp as a snack? Yes, given their low-calorie count (especially if steamed or boiled), five shrimp make an excellent and satisfying high-protein snack.
• Does adding sauce affect the calorie count of shrimp? Yes, sauces can drastically increase the calorie count. A single tablespoon of cocktail sauce, for instance, can add extra calories.

Citations

• Baton Rouge Clinic: Are Shrimp Healthy? 5 Potential Benefits. https://batonrougeclinic.com/news-education/is-shrimp-healthy/
• NC Seafood: Shrimp Calories & Benefits for Weight Loss. https://www.ncseafood.com/blog/shrimp-nutrition-and-calorie-facts/
• Eat This Much: 5 Large Shrimps Nutrition Facts. https://www.eatthismuch.com/calories/shrimp-3401
• Verywell Fit: Shrimp Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits. https://www.verywellfit.com/shrimp-nutrition-facts-calories-and-health-benefits-4111318
• FatSecret: Calories in Shrimp (Cooked) (5 medium). https://www.fatsecret.com.sg/calories-nutrition/generic/shrimp-(cooked)?portionid=8213&portionamount=5.000
• WebMD: All About Shrimp. https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-all-about-shrimp
• Food Struct: Chicken vs Shrimp Nutrition Comparison. https://foodstruct.com/compare/chicken-meat-vs-shrimp
• Eat This Much: 5 Medium Shrimps Nutrition Facts. https://www.eatthismuch.com/calories/shrimp-3399
• FatSecret: Calories in Steamed or Boiled Shrimp (5 prawns). https://www.fatsecret.co.in/calories-nutrition/generic/steamed-or-boiled-shrimp?portionid=8215&portionamount=5.000
• Giant Food: Save on Giant Cooked Jumbo Shrimp w/Cocktail Sauce. https://giantfood.com/groceries/seafood/shrimp/shrimp-ring/frozen-shrimp-ring/giant-cooked-jumbo-shrimp-wcocktail-sauce-21-25-ct-per-lb-frozen-20-oz-pkg.html
• Summer Shack: 5 Things You Should Know About Shrimp. https://www.summershackrestaurant.com/news-item/5-things-you-should-know-about-shrimp/
• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): This is a well-regarded source for nutritional information, referenced by Verywell Fit.
• MyNetDiary: Calories in Cooked Large Shrimp. https://www.mynetdiary.com/food/calories-in-cooked-large-shrimp-by-great-value-shrimp-26786493-0.html
• Reddit: SHRIMP - Nutritional Facts. https://www.reddit.com/r/nutrition/comments/1jqtj8n/shrimp_nutritional_facts/
• FatSecret: Calories in Prawns (5 medium). https://www.fatsecret.co.za/calories-nutrition/generic/prawns?portionid=320893&portionamount=5.000

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in five cooked large shrimp?

Five cooked large shrimp contain approximately 33 calories, assuming they are prepared with moist heat and no added fats.

Is the calorie count different for five raw versus cooked shrimp?

Yes, the calorie count differs slightly between raw and cooked shrimp due to moisture loss during cooking. For instance, five raw medium shrimp have about 21 calories, while five medium cooked shrimp have roughly 36 calories.

What is the protein content in five shrimp?

The protein content varies with size. A 3-ounce serving of cooked shrimp (around 8-12 medium shrimp) contains about 20 grams of protein, so five medium shrimp would have a proportionate amount.

Do fried shrimp have more calories than boiled shrimp?

Yes, fried shrimp have significantly more calories. While five boiled medium shrimp are about 36 calories, five breaded and fried large shrimp could be 125-200 calories or more due to added oil and batter.

Are shrimp a good food for dieting?

Yes, shrimp are an excellent choice for dieting because they are low in calories but high in protein, which promotes feelings of fullness and satiety.

Is the cholesterol in shrimp a health concern?

While shrimp contains dietary cholesterol, modern dietary guidelines suggest that for most healthy people, dietary cholesterol has less of an impact on blood cholesterol levels than saturated fats, which shrimp is very low in.

What nutrients are in five shrimp?

Five shrimp provide a good source of protein and various vitamins and minerals, including selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and choline.

How do I calculate the calories for a larger serving of shrimp?

For an approximate calculation, a general rule of thumb is that a 3-ounce (85 gram) serving of plain, cooked shrimp contains about 84-90 calories. You can use this ratio to scale up your serving size.