For the health conscious buyer, adding seafood to your diet several times a week can be a great nutritional choice. Not only are fish and shellfish a good source of protein, but studies have shown that seafood may actually lower overall blood cholesterol levels. The majority of the cholesterol found in fish and shellfish is high density liprotein (HDL), the good cholesterol your body needs and is harder for the body to absorb when compared to other fatty foods as beef. Though science has not proved a definitive reason for this, the theory is that seafood contains larger amounts of water that slow the rate of absorption. As an added benefit, omega 3 fatty acids are found in fish that may act as a monitor to the blood cholesterol level.

Diets found low in fat, saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. To be health smart eat a balanced diet that includes fish and shellfish with a variety of fruits, vegetables and grains.