HEALTH BENEFITS
Mussels are super healthy and are considered to have the most impressive nutritional profile of all shellfish!
High in protein – low in saturated fats and calories
One of the nutritional benefits of eating mussels is increased protein intake. Proteins help maintain the function of every cell in your body. Gram for gram, fresh mussel meat provides the same amount of high-quality protein as red meat but much less fat, particularly ‘bad’ or saturated fat, and mussel meat contains far fewer calories than most types of red meat. Consuming foods rich in high-quality protein, such as mussels, as part of a heart-healthy, high-fibre diet, may offer other health benefits such as aiding weight management.
Healthy heart
Mussels are low in total and saturated fats but are one of the richest shellfish sources in heart-healthy, long-chain unsaturated fatty acids, collectively known as Omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have shown that eating foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk factors for heart disease by reducing triglyceride levels (levels of fat) in the bloodstream. These benefits can contribute to a reduced risk of heart attack, stroke and abnormal heart rhythms in people who have already had a heart attack.
As well as cardio-protective properties, these fats have many other benefits, including improving brain function and reducing inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.
Packed full of vitamins and minerals fresh from the sea
Mussels boast an impressive vitamin and mineral content, including:
Adequate vitamin A intake nourishes your eyes, skin, immune system and aids in the production of new white blood cells.
Vitamin B-12 encourages production of red blood cells, maintains the health of your nervous system and prevents anaemia. The vitamin also plays a role in DNA synthesis, and might help protect you from developing cardiovascular disease
Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron and maintains your immune system and strengthens a range of tissues.
Selenium helps maintain a healthy
immune function and acts as an
antioxidant to fight cellular damage.
Manganese helps your body with proper bone formation, regulates your blood sugar levels and metabolises energy from food.
About two-thirds of the iron in your body is present in haemoglobin, the protein in your red blood cells that moves oxygen to your muscles and tissues. Adequate iron intake boosts your immune system and plays a role in cell growth.
Zinc supports a strong immune system and aids in wound healing and cell division.