Oysters also contain the amino acid tyrosine, which your brain uses to produce the chemicals needed to enhance mental function and elevate your mood.
Oysters. Oysters are packed with zinc, low levels of which have been linked to clinical depression according to Anxiety.org. For people already dealing with depression, science suggests zinc may help antidepressants work better.
Dr. Ramsey is an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry and has two reasons why oysters are so great for helping to treat anxiety and depression: High amounts of B12 and long chain omega-3 fatty acids.
Seafood Can Boost Mood
“Seafood has health benefits that address anxiety and depression,” explains Seafood Nutrition Partnership. Omega-3s in fatty fish have received plenty of attention for their positive impact on mood.
Oysters are a rich source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins while being low in carbohydrates. Oysters help regulate blood pressure and improve blood circulation, which gives an overall good feeling. Oysters are often regarded as an aphrodisiac (stimulates sex drive).
If shellfish contains various nutrients, it is estimated that the shell may also contain the same nutrients, especially Zn. Zn is one of the macrominerals that function to increase testosterone levels both in humans and in mammals.
Another type of omega-3 fat found in cold-water fish, DHA, is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety. Examples of cold-water seafood high in omega-3 fats are sardines, tuna, trout, oysters, and mussels.
“The answer is to be found in the so-called umami taste, which along with sweet and salty, is one of the five basic flavours detectable to human taste buds. Many people associate umami with the flavour of meat. But now, we have discovered that it is also found in both oysters and champagne,” says Professor Ole G.
Per Smithsonian Magazine, oysters are high in zinc, which aids in the production of testosterone. They also contain certain amino acids, as well as serotonin, which activate the pleasure centers in the brain.
They can boost your mental health
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.
Oysters also contain large amounts of the amino acid called tyrosine, a nutrient that plays a part in the production of dopamine. Increased dopamine levels in the brain correlate to an increased libido.
Oysters. Oysters are extremely rich in zinc, which is essential for testosterone production and maintenance of healthy sperm. And even though women have much less testosterone than men, it also plays a key part in the female libido. Oysters also boost dopamine, a hormone that increases libido in both men and women.
Oysters, and the rest of their family of bivalve mollusks, also contain two amino acids: Daspartic acid (D-Asp) and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA). These, like zinc, both contribute to an increase in sex hormones and virility.
Recent studies show that foods with the highest antidepressant benefits include oysters and mussels, other seafood, lean organ meats, leafy greens, lettuce, peppers, and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, and Brussels sprouts.
Eat foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains — for example, oatmeal, quinoa, whole-grain breads and whole-grain cereals. Steer clear of foods that contain simple carbohydrates, such as sugary foods and drinks. Drink plenty of water. Even mild dehydration can affect your mood.
Food and your mood
Protein consumption (from foods like fish, beef, chicken, turkey, tofu, beans, eggs and unsweetened yogurt) has been linked to higher levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which are brain chemicals that play a role in your mood, motivation and concentration.
Nutrition-related mood swings are often caused by high amounts of sugar, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates such as donuts, cakes, cookies, and white bread. Many of these foods lack an adequate amount of vitamins and minerals, and can cause blood glucose to fluctuate and trigger mood shifts.
Oysters contain both serotonin and melatonin. They also are an excellent source of zinc, a mineral shown to also support healthy sleep. Studies have found that a zinc-rich diet (due to the consumption of oysters) boosts sleep quality.
Energy Boosting:
Oysters contain a good amount of B12 vitamins, which boost energy and turn the food we eat into energy.