Oysters

I just want to take a moment to recognize one of the biggest nutrient powerhouses…oysters!

Oysters get a bad rap for being too bougie or too gross, but they can actually be super affordable and quite tasty. These mollusks come in a variety of species and are a vital part of the ecosystem, as they help filter and keep water clean. They also provide habitats for barnacles and mussels.

These mollusks are basically shells full of protein...and tons of minerals! On average, one oyster contains 7 g protein, Vitamin D, B1, B3, B12, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, selenium, and DHMBA (a liver-supportive antioxidant). What I really like about them, however, is that they’re an incredible source of zinc (605% RDI). Zinc is vital for our immune system function, carbohydrate metabolism, normal growth and development, wound healing, the synthesis of DNA, and fertility.

I much prefer natural sources of zinc like oysters, as it competes with a lot of other minerals for absorption and supplementation can actually create imbalances. Supplementation can especially impact copper, which is critical to make energy. Getting a little nerdy...zinc supplements trigger the synthesis of metallothionein which binds copper at 1000X strength.

Of course, eating anything raw comes with its risks of exposure to bacteria, including oysters. But I think consumption is generally safe as long as you’re eating from high-quality sources. Since they’re mollusks, they may also contain contaminants. IMO the benefits of oysters far outweigh this small downside. There are exceptions, however, and people with certain conditions may want to steer clear.

My local Whole Foods sells oysters for just $1 each every Friday and it’s become a weekly family tradition. I’ve become quite the master schucker, and I like to eat them raw with a little bit of horseradish, lemon, and vinegar. If you’re not into raw, you can always sautee them in a pan with some butter and sprinkle them with salt or get the canned version.

Delicious and nutritious!

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This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before pursuing any changes to your personal healthcare regime.

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References

Haas, E. M. Levin, B. (2006). Staying Healthy with Nutrition. New York, NY: Ten Speed Press.

Kubala, J. (2019). Are Oysters Good for You? Benefits and Dangers Retrieved from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/oysters.

Tamano, H. Shakushi, Y. Watanabe, M. Ohashi, K. Uematsu, C. Otsubo, T. Ikeda, I. Takeda, A. (2015). Preventive Effect of 3,5-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzyl Alcohol (DHMBA) and Zinc, Components of the Pacific Oyster Crassostrea gigas, on Glutamatergic Neuron Activity in the Hippocampus. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26695827.

Watanabe, M. Fuda, H. Hiroaki, O. Sae, J. Yusuke, M. Shu, P. H., Yimin. Naohiro, H. Emiko, M. Hitoshi, C. (2016). Oyster extracts attenuate pathological changes in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) mouse model. Retrieved from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464615005769.

Watanabe, M. Watanabe, T. Miki, E. Katagiri, M. (2017). Effects of Intake of 3,5-Dihydroxy-4-Methoxybenzyl Alcohol (DHMBA) - Containing oyster extract drink on the status of stress, fatigue, and sleep - A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study. Retrieved from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320069070_Effects_of_Intake_of_35-Dihydroxy-4-Methoxybenzyl_Alcohol_DHMBA_-_Containing_oyster_extract_drink_on_the_status_of_stress_fatigue_and_sleep_-_A_randomized_double-blind_placebo-controlled_parallel-grou.

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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. While the owner of this website tries to keep the information up to date, there may be things that are out-of-date and out of their control.