Crabs are a food high in protein. Autumn and winter are the best seasons for eating crab, and crab lovers can indulge to their heart's content during this time. However, if we indulge in a large amount of crab meat, our stomachs cannot handle it. At this critical time, eating some rice or porridge can aid digestion.
Relevant experts point out that crab is a high-protein food. Calculated by fresh weight, the protein content in 100 grams of crab meat is about 15% to 18%. This figure may not seem as high as the 20% in chicken or beef, but because crab meat has an exceptionally high water content and a very low fat content, when calculated by dry weight, its protein content accounts for 70% to 90% of its dry weight, a level that is difficult for other foods to achieve. Therefore, a large intake of crab meat places a high demand on proteases in the digestive tract. If we consume relatively little protein in our daily lives, the working capacity of these proteases will not be very efficient, which poses a significant challenge to our digestive system.
Seafood such as crabs, shrimp, and shellfish has low energy content but provides a strong sense of fullness in a short period. Even if you eat two jin (about 1 kg) of crab, the pure meat after shelling is only about 400 grams, containing 60 to 70 grams of protein, which can meet the daily requirement for an adult man. However, the energy content is only about 400 kilocalories, which is far less than the usual amount for a man's dinner (over 800 kilocalories). Furthermore, protein has a high thermal effect, meaning 30% of its energy is dissipated as heat, so the amount actually utilized by the body is even less.
Relevant experts suggest eating some rice or porridge along with seafood and freshwater fish. This way, it is less likely to lead to excessive protein intake, and you won't feel hungry as easily afterward. With the "dilution" from starch, the protein does not enter the gastrointestinal tract as densely, is not wasted as excess energy, and also reduces the burden on the digestive system, liver, and kidneys. Therefore, all crab lovers should take note: when eating crab, it is advisable to eat some rice to help your stomach digest better.