10 Wonderful Benefits Of Oysters

health benefits of oysters

10 Wonderful Benefits Of Oysters. There are many health benefits tied to this elusive creature. Oysters contain many vital nutrients and minerals that are beneficial to our general wellbeing. They might, for example, help with weight loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Some experts even think they can improve heart health and increase immunity levels, while others attest they can aid in the healing process. But it’s their aphrodisiac properties — and their ability to increase bone strength — that make them so unique.

What are Oysters?

Oysters are a common name for a variety of bivalve mollusks found in both marine and freshwater waters. Some oysters are harvested for their pearls, some are harvested for their shells. In this article we will discuss a variety of oysters that can be eaten. Also known as true oysters these oysters fall under the family Ostreidae.

Edible oysters have been part of the human diet for at least 700 years, eaten both raw and cooked. The edible component is the meat inside the shell. Oysters are considered to be delicacies, and they provide habitat to many other species. They also help in filtering feeders and improving water quality over time.

Oyster Nutrition Facts

Oysters are very rich in minerals and vitamins, and can even help provide some protein and other important nutrients. In addition to being wonderful sources of zinc, selenium, protein, vitamin D, vitamin B12 [2], iron, and copper [2], oysters might also provide B-vitamins such as niacin, riboflavin and thiamin [2] as well as vitamins C and phosphorus [2]. Oysters might also be a good source of omega-3s if they are wild caught or organic.

Health Benefits of Oysters

Let’s look at some of these health benefits in greater detail.

May be an Aphrodisiac

Casanova said that oysters were his secret to staying sexually charged. The Italian adventurer praised them for his libido, explaining that he had “returned to complete my cadaver of physical powers.” We may take Casanova’s words with a grain of salt, but oysters may be the key to having sex drive, thanks to their high zinc content.

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Zinc is also responsible for sexual dysfunction in men, and can cause impotence and erectile dysfunction. It is good for women because it helps in embryonic development.

Might be Rich in Zinc

Check out this list of some the best foods to eat if you’re looking to increase your libido.

Might help Weight Loss

Many people get their zinc from red meat and poultry, but oysters may contain more per serving than any other food. At 8.31mg, just a couple of medium-sized raw oysters can meet your daily requirement (which is 8mg for women and 11mg for men).

As a source of zinc, oysters can also be a healthier alternative to red meat. Zinc has many health benefits which are well researched, possibly including healthy reproductive organs or the prevention of age-related vision problems.

Might be a Healthy Protein Source

The oyster is one of the most nutrient-filled foods on the list with a low-calorie count when compared per serving. For instance, 100 grams of grilled chicken breast may contain 176 calories while 100 grams of canned oysters may only contain 74 calories.

The fat content is less than half, and that’s great if you’re trying to lose weight. But remember that they are high in sodium, so keep your consumption at a moderate level if you suffer from any cardiovascular disease.

May Contribute to a Heart Health

While oysters have a lower protein content than animal products like chicken, they are a much healthier choice. This is because meats are high in unhealthy fats while oysters are full of healthy fats. Six medium oysters (88gm) will provide you with 8g of protein.

A 2019 Washington Post article pointed out that as protein sources, oysters and sardines score the highest in terms of healthy fat content. Oysters are also an environmentally-friendly option as harvesting them does not cause additional greenhouse gas emissions, instead it helps to purify the water in their habitat.

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May Speed up Healing

Oysters have many benefits for our heart, though the primary reason is their high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of good cholesterol that can help in maintaining a healthy heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and improving blood vessel function.

Even more exciting, the high potassium content can influence post-meal blood pressure changes and might make the nutrients in oysters even more beneficial. The high magnesium content of oysters may also lower blood pressure and relax blood vessels to help circulation. Finally, the high vitamin E content could boost the cardioprotective properties of oysters, which could be particularly beneficial to people with chronic diseases like diabetes.

Might Increase Blood Circulation

Oysters have a high zinc content, which has shown to contribute to wound care. This mineral is one of the most important nutrients because it provides wound-healing rates and boosts the immune system against infection and sicknesses.

Zinc is also essential for proper growth and development of children and adults as well as maintaining function in adults of all ages.

Might Boost Immune Function

Oysters can be a good source of iron, according to a study referenced in the Journal of the Fisheries Research Board of Canada. Iron in 100 gm of oysters can range around 6 mg. This is close to the daily requirement of 8 mg for postmenopausal women and men.

Premenopausal women need almost double the quantity. Iron is a key component in red blood cell formation. Too little iron may lead to anemia, including fatigue, cognitive problems, stomach disorders, and general muscle weakness.

How To Eat Oyster?

The oyster might be full of some great vitamins and minerals, like zinc, that are essential in keeping our immune system healthy. Selenium is important because it can fight off bacteria, while zinc helps us kill harmful microorganisms. Another type of vitamin found in oysters is Vitamin B12. This vitamin is essential for keeping our immune system strong.

Eating oysters can be intimidating. One never quite knows what to do with the pale flesh in its shell. But there’s nothing to worry about–eating an oyster is simple. Just take the shell and use your fork to loosen the flesh, and tilt it into your mouth using the wider end. Then chew on it, letting the fresh flavors flood your mouth.

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