Content
Oysters have been known for years. In ancient times, this product was popular among the poor due to the high cost of animal meat. With its spread, the clam population gradually declined. This led to an increase in the cost of seafood, which began to be considered a delicacy. The benefits of oysters for the body are associated with the presence of valuable substances.
The chemical composition of oysters
The seafood belongs to the shellfish (bivalve) family. A comfortable habitat is warm water bodies, where both oyster colonies and solitary settlements can be found.
The bivalve shell of mollusks is asymmetric. Its size, shape and color vary greatly. Oysters live at depths of up to 70 m and have more than 50 varieties. Deep mollusks differ in size up to 50 cm, and flat ones - up to 5 cm.
Harvesting healthy seafood is often seasonal. Their cultivation is possible in an artificial environment. Low temperatures are essential for adequate life.
A substance is synthesized in the shell that contributes to the increase in size. Oyster shell composition:
- calcium carbonate;
- impurity of phosphate;
- magnesium carbonate.
The product includes the following beneficial substances:
- tocopherol;
- retinol;
- ascorbic acid;
- vitamins belonging to group B;
- calcium;
- magnesium;
- potassium;
- phosphorus;
- iron.
Nutritional value:
- fats - 2.5 g;
- proteins - 8.7 g;
- carbohydrates - 4 g;
- water - 83 g.
The amount of dietary fiber is 1.1 g.
Health Benefits of Oysters
The benefits of the product can be expected when eaten raw. Heat treatment leads to the loss of important components and taste.
The following useful properties are called:
- strengthening of bone tissue;
- normalization of the functioning of the thyroid gland;
- lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels;
- improvement of the psycho-emotional state;
- reducing the risk of developing malignant tumors;
- restoration of visual acuity;
- increased hemoglobin levels.
Why oysters are good for women
Eating this delicacy helps to prolong youth. In this connection, the product is recommended for women. The beneficial effect is due to the presence of arginine in the composition. The amino acid improves the condition of the skin, eliminating fine wrinkles. Hair becomes healthier and grows faster.
Why oysters are good for men
The components present in the meat increase potency and libido. Seafood contains significant amounts of zinc. This substance is involved in spermatogenesis.
A significant number of men are characterized by premature alopecia.Hair loss is not always genetic. Often, the thinning of curls is due to a deficiency of vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of a delicacy in the menu prevents the problem of falling out.
Why are oysters harmful?
Shellfish are known to be a healthy food. Health harm can be expected from their use in case of contraindications. Meat sometimes provokes allergic reactions. The use of seafood without heat treatment is dangerous for the development of intestinal infections.
Eating a low-quality delicacy can cause poisoning. You should not visit cafes and restaurants that lack adequate sanitary conditions. This healthy product has a pleasant marine smell.
How many calories are in an oyster
Oysters are a dietary product that contains a significant amount of protein. It is known that 100 g of shellfish contain 70 kcal. Meat helps to lose weight and strengthen muscle fibers.
Contraindications to oysters
Shellfish are not included in the children's menu until the child is at least 5 years old. Seafood is subject to heat treatment before use.
Particular care should be taken by pregnant women. A weakened immune system can react negatively when a healthy delicacy is overused.
During lactation, all the components that make up breast milk enter the baby's body. The child's immune and digestive systems are immaturity, which often causes various undesirable reactions. Women who are breastfeeding should follow their usual diet and introduce foods gradually and in small quantities.
Oysters during lactation can be included in the menu only if they are consumed during pregnancy. In the first months of breastfeeding, meat is not recommended for use. It is advisable to heat molluscs. This will destroy harmful microorganisms and the development of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Rules for the use of oysters
The shellfish must be alive. They are consumed without chewing. Seafood can be boiled, marinated and included in various dishes. Dead individuals lose their beneficial properties. Care should be taken when opening the sink. If uneven particles get into the pulp, they can provoke a violation of the integrity of the mucous membranes of the esophagus and stomach.
The shell of the mollusk should be moist, and the shell valves should be closed. The shell weight is normally significant. In the process of opening the flaps, a kind of click is heard. You cannot purchase open oysters.
Peeled oysters can be stored for up to 3 days. An ice pad is used for this purpose. The prepared delicacy can be poured with vegetable oil. It must be consumed within a week. Otherwise, healthy meat loses its valuable properties.
Oysters during pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman is advised to revise her diet in order to provide the growing body with all the necessary substances. Nutritional habits are also associated with an increased risk of allergic reactions. In pregnant women, hormonal levels change significantly, which makes the body more vulnerable.
However, gynecologists and nutritionists do not prohibit eating oysters in moderation. The use of the product is due to:
- high in protein;
- low calorie content;
- beneficial effect on the heart and blood vessels.
During pregnancy, the load on the cardiovascular system increases due to the appearance of a second circle of blood circulation. Most women gain excess weight, which is accompanied by the risk of developing gestosis. Eating oysters helps to minimize the risks associated with physiological changes.
Conclusion
The health benefits of oysters have been proven by scientific research. Meat has a positive effect on the functioning of organs and systems. Regular consumption of this delicacy maintains the required level of protein, helps to eliminate insomnia and depression. Oysters are also good for the kidneys due to their unique set of vitamins and minerals. To avoid unpleasant consequences, certain precautions must be taken when using the product.