Although it lacks the vibrant color and plump body of fresh shrimp, dried shrimp skin has become equally "famous" for being affordable, delicious, and nutritious, making it a favored "healthy food" among people.
Contrary to what many think, dried shrimp skin is not the precursor to fresh shrimp, but rather its "relative." It is a food product made from small sea shrimp that have been cooked and sun-dried. At first glance, it seems to contain very little shrimp meat, but precisely for this reason, it has earned the reputation of a "treasure trove of calcium"—with a calcium content as high as 991 mg per 100 grams (the recommended daily calcium intake for adults is 800 mg), making it one of the foods with the highest calcium content.
The rich calcium content makes dried shrimp skin a good way for those with calcium deficiency to supplement their intake, and the elderly, in particular, should eat more of it to prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Furthermore, it is also rich in protein and minerals; for example, the magnesium it contains plays an important regulatory role, helping to protect the cardiovascular system, reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, and has a certain effect in preventing arteriosclerosis, hypertension, and myocardial infarction.
Not only is dried shrimp skin nutritious, but it is also very flavorful. Adding a small amount to any dish or soup can enhance its flavor, making it an indispensable seafood seasoning in both Chinese and Western cuisine. At the same time, it can also reduce sodium intake, which is a great bonus. Dried shrimp skin stir-fried with winter melon, stir-fried with chives, or mixed with green peppers are all excellent dishes.
However, it is worth noting that because dried shrimp skin is rich in calcium, it is best not to eat it at night to avoid the risk of urinary tract stones. The peak time for calcium excretion in the human body is generally 4-5 hours after a meal. If the dinner contains too much calcium, or if dinner is very late, or if shrimp skin is eaten before bed, by the time the peak calcium excretion arrives, people are already asleep, and urine will be retained in the urinary tract. This causes the calcium concentration in the urine to continuously increase and deposit, and over time, stones can easily form. Additionally, it is best not to eat dried shrimp skin when one has excessive internal "heat" (inflammation); people suffering from allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, or allergic dermatitis should also avoid it.