When did we really start consuming the oysters? Evidence of oyster consumption by humans dates as far back as 164,000 years ago. Fast forward to roughly 2,000 years ago, history shows the Romans in England enjoying this salty seafood. Oysters were a delicacy for the wealthy class during the Greek and Roman empires. Oysters were so important to the Greeks that the Greeks became the first to cultivate oysters. In today’s time, oysters are enjoyed by many as it is relatively affordable – though not as cheap as before (New Yorkers in the 1800s ate about 600 oysters a year). People crave oysters for their salty, sweet, melon, buttery, and briny taste (depending on the region) and enjoy it today in various ways - raw, steamed, fried, grilled, roasted, or stewed with other ingredients or paired with beverages.
According to Healthline, a standard 3.5 ounce serving of oysters contains several valuable minerals, almost as much protein as an egg, and low calories. Let us have a look at the different minerals present in a serving of 100 grams (3.5 ounces) oysters.
Calories: 68
Protein: 8 grams
Fat: 3 grams
Vitamin D: 80% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
Thiamine (vitamin B1): 7% of the RDI
Niacin (vitamin B3): 7% of the RDI
Vitamin B12: 324% of the RDI
Iron: 37% of the RDI
Magnesium: 12% of the RDI
Phosphorus: 14% of the RDI
Zinc: 605% of the RDI
Copper: 223% of the RDI
Manganese: 18% of the RDI
Selenium: 91% of the RDI
In addition to the above oysters also boasts of enhancing the dopamine levels which are associated with pleasurable sensations, along with learning, memory, motor system function, and more. Due to higher concentrations of zinc and manganese oysters are perfect for boosting testosterone and improving fertility up to some amount. Due to the high content of iron, oysters also help in increasing hemoglobin levels which is a compound found in the red blood cells. As per studies oysters contain phosphatidylserine which is a compound that lowers levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, by almost 40%. As per a researcher from Tel Aviv University scientists found that oysters also help in delaying the advance of degenerative brain disorders and thus help in fighting Parkinson’s disease.
Although not widely known in the muscle-building world, oysters are one of the highest zinc content foods which are essential for bodybuilding and weight lifting. Higher intake of zinc results in higher post workout testosterone levels. Yet another reason to include oysters in your diet!
Furthermore, as per Healthline, oysters also contain a unique antioxidant called 3,5-Dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzyl alcohol (DHMBA) which is a phenolic compound that exhibits powerful antioxidant effects.
From an environmental perspective, eating oysters is a good thing as almost no oysters are sourced from wild deposits today. With this, we hope we were able to provide you with ample reasons to include oysters in your diet.
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