Which Wins for Health, Prawns or Fish?
You’re at the seafood counter. The prawns look plump and pink, while the fish fillets are glossy and inviting. Both promise lean protein, quick cooking, and health benefits. But in the prawns vs fish debate, which is better for your goals: protein? Weight loss? Overall health? Let’s break down the facts so you can make the smartest choice for your body and lifestyle.
Prawns vs Fish: Nutrition Comparison
When you compare prawns vs fish nutrition, you’ll find both have a lot to offer, yet small differences can tip the scales depending on your diet and health priorities.
Prawns Nutrition
Serving (100g Cooked):
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Calories: ~100
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Protein: ~20g (prawns protein is among the highest for low calorie seafood)
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Fat: Under 1g
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Key nutrients: Vitamin B12, selenium, zinc, iodine, phosphorus, choline, astaxanthin (antioxidant pigment)
Prawn nutrition is especially attractive for people watching their weight or seeking a mineral boost, as prawns offer superb nutrition with very little fat or calories.
Fish Nutrition
Serving (100g Grilled White Fish, e.g., cod/tilapia):
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Calories: 100–130
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Protein: 20–24g (fish protein is high, especially in lean white fish)
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Fat: 1–3g in white fish; can reach 7–14g in fatty fish, but these are healthy Omega-3 fats
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Key nutrients: B vitamins, selenium, vitamin D, iodine, Omega-3 (in fatty fish: salmon, sardine, mackerel)
Fatty fish are valued for heart-protective Omega-3s, while lean varieties still provide outstanding fish protein, making fish for health a top choice.
Prawns vs Fish Protein: How Do They Stack Up?
Both are protein champions, supporting muscle, metabolism, and lasting satiety. Here’s the breakdown:
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Prawns protein: ~20g/100g serving
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Fish protein: 20–24g/100g serving (varies with type, with tuna and salmon near the top)
In most cases, the difference in protein is minimal, and both supply complete amino acids your muscles and immune system need to thrive.
Prawns vs Fish for Weight Loss: Why Both Work
Prawns and fish are low calorie seafood stars that fit effortlessly into calorie-controlled, high-protein, or even low carb and keto diets.
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Prawns for weight loss:
Densely packed with protein, almost no fat, and very few calories. Large serving sizes keep you feeling full and help preserve muscle while losing fat. Try grilled, steamed, or in brothy soups with leafy greens. -
Fish for weight loss:
Lean white fish, like cod or tilapia, is ultra-light but very filling. Fatty fish like salmon and sardines, while higher in calories, promote fat burning with Omega-3s, keeping you healthy as you trim down.
The secret is avoiding heavy oils, coatings, or creamy sauces. Poaching, grilling, baking, or lightly sautéing with spices unlocks all the flavor without sabotaging your health goals.
Prawns vs Fish: Health Benefits for Every Body
Prawns vs fish health benefits extend across the board:
For prawns:
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Excellent for metabolism and thyroid health (rich in iodine and selenium)
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Contains astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant for eye and skin protection
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May help lower inflammation and improve lipid profiles
For fish:
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Fatty fish bring Omega-3s for heart, brain, and joint protection
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Supports cognitive clarity, reduces heart disease risk, and boosts vitamin D (especially important in winter months)
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Lean fish are easier to digest and suitable for people with sensitive stomachs
Both kinds of seafood are immune-boosters, packed with compounds that help fight inflammation, aging, and fatigue.
Prawns vs Fish: Which Is Healthier?
When it comes to the ultimate prawns vs fish which is healthier face-off:
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Choose prawns if you want the lowest calories and fat, more minerals, and a super-high protein punch with minimal cholesterol (contrary to old myths, prawn cholesterol is not considered risky for most people when eaten in moderation).
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Choose fish (especially fatty varieties) for heart and brain protection, thanks to Omega-3s, vitamin D, and B12. Lean fish are ideal if you want a pure-protein, light-calorie boost.
Ultimately, variety is best, alternating prawns and fish in your diet maximizes health benefits and keeps meals interesting.
Prawns vs Fish: Side-by-Side Nutrition Table
|
100g Serving |
Calories |
Protein |
Fat |
Omega-3 (mg) |
Key Nutrients |
|
Prawns (cooked) |
99 |
20g |
0.3g |
~120 |
Vit B12, selenium, zinc |
|
White Fish (cod) |
105 |
23g |
0.8g |
~200 |
Vit B12, vit D, selenium |
|
Fatty Fish (salmon) |
208 |
20g |
13g |
2300+ |
Vit D, Omega-3, B12 |
People Asked: Is Prawn Better Than Fish?
Neither is "better" for everyone, choose based on your goals, taste, and nutritional needs. For weight loss, prawns are nearly unbeatable for low calories with filling protein. For holistic health and Omega-3s, include fatty fish several times a week. The smartest approach? Rotate both in your meal plan and enjoy the full spectrum of seafood goodness.
How to Choose, Cook, and Serve Prawns vs Fish
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Always buy seafood from trusted, hygienic vendors for freshness and safety.
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Store seafood on ice or in the coldest part of your fridge, and use within two days.
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Prep with simple marinades, lemon, garlic, chili, or herbs.
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Cook with little oil: steam, grill, bake, or poach.
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Pair with fresh vegetables, whole grains, and citrus for a balanced meal.
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Avoid heavy sauces and breading if weight loss or pure nutrition is your priority.
Expert Tips for Seafood Success
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Don’t overcook: both prawns and fish only need a few minutes for perfect tenderness.
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For batch cooking, portion, cook, and chill seafood fast. Reheat gently.
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Try recipes from global cuisines: prawn stir-fry, fish tacos, Mediterranean baked fish, prawn coconut curry, grilled sardines, or prawn and quinoa salad.
Recap: Prawns vs Fish, Double the Health, Double the Flavor
In the end, there’s no need to choose just one. Both prawns and fish are fantastic for protein, weight loss, and overall nutrition. Use prawns for ultra-lean, mineral-rich meals; tap into fish nutrition for heart, brain, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Alternate for variety, and you’ll reap the best of both worlds.
Want perfectly prepared prawns and fish with zero fuss? Head to Dave & Buster’s for world-class seafood, varied menus, and fun-filled nights, all focused on your health goals and taste adventure.
If you’d like deeper analysis on specific species, meal-prep guides, or even allergy or sustainability tips, just let me know!
