These salty mollusks are wonderfully rich gifts from the sea! If you can become accustomed to their slippery texture, eating oysters will provide you will a vast array of nutrients to benefit your health. They are incredibly high in zinc and other minerals and are known to boost your metabolism, fortify your immune system, aid digestion, reduce blood pressure, improve circulation and strengthen bones. They are also full of fortifying protein and inflammation-reducing omega-3 fatty acids.
The Wonders of Zinc!
Six medium-sized oysters can contain up to 50 milligrams of zinc… more than four times as much as the necessary daily allowance! This is one of the top benefits of oysters because zinc is a super-powered mineral. Check out all these healing benefits!
Immune Boost
Zinc is essential for maintaining the integrity of the immune system. It is an integral part of the normal development and function of cells that mediate immune responses. It can be of great assistance when fighting off a cold or the flu, and also greatly contributes to wound healing.
Reproductive Function
Zinc plays a large role in healthy reproductive functions. It’s needed for a female’s body to utilize the reproductive hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Reduced zinc in the diet also contributes to reduced sperm count in men. Maternal zinc deficiency has been associated with adverse outcomes of pregnancy, including premature delivery, low birth weight, congenital anomalies, and labor and delivery complications.
Zinc and the Senses
The senses of taste and smell are linked to adequate zinc in the body. Bringing someone up to par on their zinc may actually improve the senses of taste, smell and even eyesight!
Digestion
Zinc, along with magnesium and chloride are utilized by the parietal cells in your stomach to produce hydrochloric acid (HCL). It you find that you have trouble digesting proteins or have recurrent heartburn, it is very likely that you have too little HCL, and potentially not enough zinc to allow you to be producing the proper amount for food digestion.
Protection Against Heart Disease
The high level of omega-3 fatty acids in oysters can reduce “bad” cholesterol and significantly reduce inflammation caused by an excessive amount of omega-6s in the body. The potassium and magnesium within oysters also helps to lower blood pressure and increase circulation in the cardiovascular system and the body as a whole. Their vitamin E content also helps to strengthen cell membranes. All of these effects are amazingly beneficial for your heart!
Energy Boost
Oysters are also a great source of iron and have more than 90 percent of our daily requirement in a single serving. Iron is a main component of red blood cells, which helps to oxygenate the blood supply and boost one’s overall metabolism. The high iron content also protects against anemia which can cause extreme fatigue and muscle weakness.
Fabulous Ways to Prepare Oysters
While many people like to enjoy oysters straight up raw, they can also be steamed, grilled roasted and served with some delicious accompaniments! For a beachy summer weekend dinner, try this Seafood Stew. If you are looking for something fancier for a holiday party, try the Pacific Northwest Oysters with a Champagne Mignonette.
If you aren’t a big fan of that deep sea flavor, you may find that Oysters Rockefeller is your jam. Often prepared with a rich butter sauce and breadcrumbs, this decadent dish is definitely one of the most popular! A rich treat with a heaping dose of healthy minerals sounds perfect to me.
What’s your favorite way to prepare oysters?
