Seafood 101:
7 Reasons To Eat Oysters
If you’re looking for a taste of the ocean, Las Vegas is definitely the place to be. There are endless seafood options available in this city, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. With so many choices, it can be tough to know where to start. Whether you’re in the mood for Mahi-Mahi, grilled fish, or something else entirely, we’ve put together a list of our favorite types of fish to eat in Las Vegas.
Oysters have been consumed around the globe for centuries. While some see them as a delicacy, others have enjoyed them as a casual snack fresh off of the coast after a long day of fishing.
These days, oysters are readily available and enjoyed for their unique flavor and nutritive properties. Eating oysters is a unique social occasion that can add something special to any dinner, gathering, or celebration.
Oysters have a lot more to offer than just their delicious taste. They pack a range of essential nutrients that can help enhance your health without excessive calories or carbohydrates. Let’s dig in and find out why oysters are a superfood that can make any dining experience special while improving your health.
Come join us for dinner by making a reservation and view our menu to find the perfect dish for your taste buds.
Are oysters a superfood?
Yes! Oysters are a superfood that are packed with nutrients and minerals. This is based on their nutrition-to-calorie ratio, which is higher than most other seafood and even some fruits and vegetables. An average serving of oysters contains just under 30 calories but packs in a whopping 8 grams of protein.
Oyster benefits include an array of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. These all help to repair and maintain cells, boost your immune system, and protect against chronic illnesses like heart disease.
Moreover, oysters are low in calories and fat, making them an ideal food choice for those looking for weight loss options.
Are oysters healthier cooked or raw?
The best way to enjoy the full spectrum of health benefits of oysters is by eating them raw. This is because heat can degrade the nutrients present in oysters, and it’s also the freshest form possible, which maintains nutrients as well. However, oyster nutrition facts are impressive whether the dish is served cooked or raw.
Although raw oysters are said to be richer and more flavorful than their cooked counterparts, some people prefer to have their oysters cooked due to food safety reasons or a taste preference. While raw oysters are generally safe to consume, if they aren’t properly refrigerated, it’s possible that bacteria could be present. Cooking them will kill off any potential contaminants.
If you do decide to cook your oysters, you’re still getting plenty of seafood benefits. Try steaming your oysters to retain as much of the nutrients as possible. Broiled or grilled oysters are delicious as well, and anyone who has tried Rockefeller oysters, a preparation of broiled oysters topped with a rich sauce and herbs, can attest to the fact that they’re worth every bit of effort! (Just keep in mind that by adding other ingredients, you’re also adding calories and fat!)
Are oysters good for your liver?
Oysters are great for your liver and can improve its functioning. This is mainly due to the high levels of selenium found in oysters. Selenium is a trace mineral that helps to protect your liver by reducing oxidative damage and inflammation.
As a note, those with chronic liver disease can still enjoy the delicious flavor of oysters, but it’s best to eat the oysters cooked to ensure that the food is completely safe for digestion.
7 Surprising Health Benefits of Eating Oysters
And now, without further ado, here are some of the impressive health benefits associated with oysters:
1. Oysters are high in protein
One serving of raw oysters contains between 2 to 8 grams of protein and can even have more than 10 grams of protein if you opt for larger-sized oysters.
While these numbers may not seem as astronomical as your daily protein shake, you have to consider the fact that you’re getting this amount of protein from a food source with very low calories, which means you’re getting a great bang for your buck. By regularly consuming oysters, your body will have enough protein to repair and maintain cells, keeping you healthy.
2. Oysters are rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the human body, and we can only get them from our diet. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that consuming them can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease and stroke.
Oysters have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining heart health and reducing inflammation in your body. Plus, the omega-3 fatty acids found in oysters can help improve your skin health and even your mood!
3. Oysters are a source of vitamins and minerals
Due to the fact that oysters are filter feeders that take in nutrients from the sea, they’re an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals. They beat out many other types of seafood with the number of nutrients they contain. According to WebMD, here is a list of some of the vitamins and minerals found in oysters:
- Vitamin D
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Zinc
- Copper
- Manganese
- Selenium
As you can see, the benefits of eating seafood and oysters aren’t far off from those you’ll find in your daily vitamins.
4. Oysters can support weight loss
Want to eat something decadent without packing on the pounds? Oysters allow you to enjoy a social occasion of eating out without overdoing it.
If you were to eat a dozen oysters in a sitting, you’d be consuming about 360 calories in total. You’d feel quite full at the end, while still eating far fewer calories than is normal for a full meal.
5. They can boost your mental health
You probably don’t think of your mood as something that’s associated with seafood benefits. But the high concentration of magnesium in oysters can actually help you feel more relaxed and can reduce feelings of stress or depression. This may be why oysters are referred to as an aphrodisiac, as they can help to reduce anxiety and boost the mood in those who consume them.
Other benefits of having magnesium in your diet include improved sleep quality, better digestion, and even a healthier immune system.
6. Oysters are a great source of electrolytes
Electrolytes help to keep your body’s systems balanced and functioning properly. Eating oysters can provide you with this vital nutritional component, as they contain a large amount of potassium and sodium.
These two electrolytes help to regulate your body’s fluid levels, making sure that they don’t become too high or too low. This will keep your cells functioning optimally and also help to prevent dehydration.
7. They are high in beneficial antioxidants
Oysters are an excellent source of powerful antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants can also help to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation in your body, making it easier for you to recover from a sickness or injury.
Enjoy oysters and seafood in Las Vegas
In addition to all of the seafood benefits listed above, eating oysters is just plain fun. So If you’re ready to try seafood in Las Vegas, stop by Aqua Seafood & Caviar Restaurant.
Come and make lasting memories with your friends by trying the freshest and most innovative seafood in town. We have the best seafood Las Vegas has to offer, so there is something for everyone. Experience an enjoyable evening no matter who’s joining the party.
You can’t go wrong with a night of delicious, fresh seafood and great atmosphere. Come join us for dinner at Aqua Seafood & Caviar Restaurant.
Resources:
A Top Superfood (2023).
Are Oysters Good for You? Benefits and Dangers (2022).Oysters: Are They Good for You? (2022).