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OystersWritten ByPartha Nandi, MD

Love them or hate them, oysters are a great way to add many health benefits to your diet. At least 700 years ago, oysters were a part of the human diet. They have likely been eaten raw or cooked for a long time before that.

Zinc

Oysters contain high levels of zinc which helps with quicker wound healing rates. Zinc helps to boost the immune system against various infections and microbes. Zinc is an essential mineral needed for proper growth and development in children and adults. It also plays a critical part in the maintenance of bodily function.

Heart Health

Oysters have high omega-3 fatty acids, which are good forms of cholesterol. Oysters and their fatty acids can reduce harmful cholesterol content in the bloodstream and inhibit it from binding to the blood vessels and artery walls. The chances of plaque accumulation are minimized, and various health complications are reduced.

Lower Blood Pressure

Oysters have a very high potassium and magnesium content. Both potassium and magnesium can help lower blood pressure and relax the blood vessels. The relaxation helps increase circulation and oxygenation of the blood and reduce strain on the cardiovascular system as a whole. Oysters are also a great source of Vitamin E, which increases the strength and flexibility of cellular membranes, which is the third level of protection against heart diseases.

Sexual Health

For years people have called oysters an aphrodisiac. Zinc is known as a hormone critical in regulating both women’s and men’s libido and sexual function. Research has found that zinc in men improves sperm count and swimming ability. The benefit of zinc for women is helping the ovaries. Zinc may help balance and regulate the combination of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

Weight Loss

Many consider oysters to be one of the most nutrient-packed foods with the lowest calories versus the volume of serving size. If you are trying to lose weight, people can get the necessary nutrients without adding weight. Compared to an equal serving size of a chicken, oysters have nearly half the calories.

About the author

Partha Nandi, MD

Partha Nandi M.D., F.A.C.P. is the creator and host of the internationally syndicated medical lifestyle television show, Ask Dr. Nandi.

A practicing physician and a renowned international speaker, his appearances include TEDx, college commencements, numerous charity functions, premier medical meetings such as Digestive Disease Week, and nationally syndicated television programs such as The Katie Couric Show.

Dr. Nandi has partnered with the Ministry of Health in multiple countries, including Jamaica and India, and has collaborated with The World Health Organization in multiple areas throughout the globe, Dr. Nandi delivers passionate and inspiring talks to diverse audiences.

He continues to travel internationally for conferences and symposia, meeting with global health leaders on his quest to improve health care quality, access, and to empower people across the world β€œTo Be Your Own Health Hero.”

DrNandi@AskDrNandi.com

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