Antioxidant properties, immune boost, benefits for the cardiovascular system, help against stress… the health benefits of oysters are numerous.
- The oyster is low in calories and nutritious.
- It is a natural antidepressant that boosts our immune system.
- It is also good for the brain.
Christmas has just ended and, like every year, the consumption of oysters by the French has exploded. Under reserve of choose them well and thus escape from food poisoning, this food has many health benefits. Below are the top five.
1/ A nutritious and dietetic food
Containing 42.1 calories per 100 grams, the oyster is the most dietary delicacy there is. Rich in protein, it is an important source of vitamins B12, A and D and contains minerals essential for the proper functioning of the immune system such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc or iron. If you can therefore abuse oysters without remorse, watch out for the bread and butter that often accompany them.
2/ A plus for immunity
As seen above, the oyster is rich in vitamin D, known for its immunomodulatory role. It also provides a fifth of the daily requirement of selenium, a mineral with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Overall, one hundred grams of oysters would cover all the daily needs of a human in copper, anti-infectives and anti-inflammatories and up to three times those in zinc. In particular, it has been proven that, in the elderly, supplementation with oysters would improve the multiplication of white blood cells in the face of an infection. In addition, the omega 3 found in oysters is also said to have anti-inflammatory effects that are useful against asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease.
3/ A natural antidepressant
Oysters are notably composed of taurine, an amino acid which acts on depression and anxiety. What’s more, the presence of selenium also helps fight against stress. Finally, iron can counter fatigue, often the cause of depression. Consumed regularly, oysters can therefore provide a welcome boost of energy.
4/ Benefits for the cardiovascular system
Oysters are very rich in eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, two fatty acids from the omega 3 family known to protect the cardiovascular system. Oysters would therefore reduce blood pressure, blood triglycerides and prevent the formation of blood clots. A study carried out among Chinese has also shown that the weekly consumption of at least one meal of fish or seafood would be associated with a lower risk of fatal myocardial infarction. Also, as you will have understood, regularly consuming oysters, as part of a varied and balanced diet, is associated with a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
5/ A boost for the brain
The docosahexaenoic acid contained in the oyster participates in the development and functioning of the brain, as well as in the maintenance of cognitive functions and vision. Finally, vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, helps to make new cells and contributes to the proper functioning of the nervous system and the formation of red blood cells.
Despite all the benefits mentioned above, oysters are however to be avoided for people suffering from hyperthyroidism and high blood pressure because of their high sodium content. Arthritis sufferers should also steer clear of them because of their purine content. Finally, people allergic to dust mites and pregnant women risk foodborne infections.
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