Oysters can provide you with a host of health benefits, among them, high levels of heart- and brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids and enough zinc—the aphrodisiac mineral—to keep your libido up. Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food; it's a key mineral for sexual health in men, and severe cases of zinc deficiency can lead to impotence. Very few scientific studies have shown that oysters can actually raise your sexual desire, but they still can help stir it.
Zinc is beneficial for women, too. The mineral can aid in energy production, DNA repair, and cardio-respiratory functioning. Oysters also provide an excellent source of protein, most specifically tyrosine. Tyrosine is an amino acid building block of all proteins that helps regulate mood and stress levels in the brain.
A diet rich in oysters will also help maintain collagen levels in the skin. This allows the skin to retain its elasticity, and delays the onset of wrinkles. Oysters also contain high levels of calcium, iron, and vitamin A.
More: The Best Foods to Nourish Your Skin
If you find it hard to stomach raw oysters—or if you just want to switch things up—try this healthy, butter-free version of baked oysters.
Ingredients
- 2 1-ounce slices of white bread
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 1 Tbsp flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp thyme, chopped
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 18 shucked oysters on the half shell
- 8 lemon wedges
In a food processor, process bread until coarsely ground. Heat a medium-sized skillet on medium heat; add olive oil and shallots. Cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add bread crumbs and brown for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove pan from heat, and add herbs and black pepper.
Carefully arrange oysters on a baking tray or in an oven-proof skillet. Spoon 1 tbsp of the bread crumb mixture on top of each oyster. Bake for 5 minutes, or until oysters are opaque. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
More: 5 Simple Fish Recipes
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