Those already onboard with Oysters are already enjoying a real delicacy. Are you wondering if Oysters are good for you? Or if they have any health benefits? There are many reasons to love Oysters – Even if you hate them.
There are tons of good reasons to add oysters to your diet. Firstly, they are one of the most nutritious foods on the planet, and can be enjoyed raw from the shell, fried or steamed. Oysters can be incorporated into different dishes and cuisines. Secondly, as a result of the ability of Oysters to filter water, most oyster farms have a low impact on the natural environment.
“Think of oysters as little shells full of nutrients.”
From a nutritional standpoint, the benefits of Oysters are hard to beat. Let’s have a look at some benefits of adding oysters to your diet.
Nutritional Content
Oysters have a huge stock of essential vitamins, minerals and organic compounds. They are an excellent source of protein, zinc, iron, copper, and vitamin D. They also have high levels of Vitamin C, phosphorus and riboflavin. That’s not all. They are also rich in antioxidants, healthy cholesterol and omega-3 fatty acids. With all these nutrients contained in a small chunk of Oyster, they are indeed superfoods. Let’s look at some other benefits your body can receive.
LOW-CALORIES
Oysters are extremely low in calories yet loaded with nutrients. People often turn to chicken when looking for a low-calorie, protein rich meat, yet Oysters have about half the amount of calorie present in equal sized chicken. The total calories consumed in a serving of 6 medium-sized oysters (raw or steamed) is less than 50 calories.
Healthy Heart
Like other seafoods, oysters are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which is considered a healthy fat. They improve overall cardiovascular health. Their vitamin E content increases the strength of cellular membranes, thereby protecting against heart disease. As a result, Oysters are very heart-healthy. Although when fried, they are not too heart-healthy, there Is a little more calorie.
Blood Circulation
Oysters can lower your blood pressure as a result of their high potassium and magnesium content. They can also increase circulation and blood oxygenation. Also, their abundance in iron helps to formulate red blood cells and boost the body’s metabolic rate. They defend the body against conditions such as anemia.
Bone Strength
With abundant healthy minerals like (Calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus and selenium) in every serving, oysters can greatly improve the strength of your bones. They can help increase bone durability and protect you from conditions like osteoporosis.
Weight Loss
If you want to lose weight, you can enjoy the exquisite taste of oysters without having to worry that you’ll add on pounds.
Immunity
Oysters contain antioxidants. Commonly found in teas, herbs and fresh vegetables. Antioxidants fight against dangerous free radicals in the body and they reduce the risk of heart disease and premature aging.
We also recommend you always eat oysters from a trusted source, such as The Oyster Bar restaurant on Chuckanut Drive. We offer fresh, raw oysters that are good for your health. Check out our oyster menu.
PLEASE NOTE. While oysters are a super healthy source of nutrition, we recommend eating them in moderation.