Raw oysters are widely consumed shellfish harvested primarily from the Gulf Of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean.Warm water oysters have caused health concerns as they can harbor dangerous bacteria such as vibrio vulnificus; However, raw oysters are also a balanced food source, providing protein, fats and carbohydrates. Consuming raw oysters is particularly dangerous for people who have certain health conditions -- consult with your health care provider before eating raw oysters.
A Beneficial Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Oysters are considered a good source of heart healthy, omega-3 fatty acids. The Food And Nutrition Board recommends that women and men consume between 1.1 and 1.6 g of omega-3 fatty acids daily; A serving of six medium oysters provides 427 mg of omega-3 fatty acids. According to The University Of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids have significant anti-inflammatory properties, and may help prevent heart disease, cancer and arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as alpha linolenic acids, are considered essential fatty acids because they are not manufactured by the body. They are heavily concentrated in the brain, and thought to play a key role in normal cognitive functions.
High in Vitamins
Raw oysters are a source of B vitamins, and a particularly excellent source of B-12. Oysters that are served raw retain their B vitamins because they are not destroyed in the cooking process. A 100 g serving of raw oysters exceeds the daily dietary reference intake of Vitamin B-12, essential for the proper functioning of nerve fibers and the activation of folic acid. Vitamin B-12 and vitamin B-9 regulate the formation of hemoglobin, and promote the proper functioning of iron within the body.
Rich in Minerals
Raw oysters contain several minerals, and have particularly high amounts of zinc, iron, selenium and copper. The recommended daily allowance for zinc is 8 to 11 mg -- one serving of raw oysters provides 17 mg of zinc. Zinc is an essential mineral for a healthy immune system, and may provide antioxidant protection. Antioxidants, according to the UMMC, are free radical scavengers that may help minimize the cellular damage caused by these unstable molecules. Free radicals have been linked to the progression of diseases such as cancer and Alzheimers. One oyster also contains approximately 2.9 mcg of selenium -- the recommended daily allowance for selenium is 22 to 27 mcg. According to The Arthritis Foundation, selenium may be beneficial in preventing arthritis, cancers, cataracts and a variety of other conditions. The iron found in raw oysters is also important for supplying oxygen to the cells of the body, and preventing anemia.
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