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Green Mussels: 10 Surprising Health Benefits & Nutritional Value

The oceans are full of mystery. There is so much we are yet to discover. But we know that a number of sea creatures and plants contain nutrients that can give us a long and healthy life.

Green Mussels, often called Green lipped mussels, are aquatic mollusks, which have compressed bodies enclosed within a hinged shell. It is commonly found in the coastal area of New Zealand and forms an essential part of the conventional Maori diet.

Green mussels are known for their health benefits. Here are some of them:

1. Improves Skin Health:

Green mussels contain a large amount of Omega-3, which is very essential for the health of our skin. Our body cannot produce its own fatty acids and depends on the food we eat for this vital nutrient. Green mussel plays this role perfectly and helps our skin stay free of aging, acne, pimple, wrinkles, black spots etc.

2. Great Source Of Protein:

As we all know, protein is the building block of life. We all need adequate amounts of protein to grow. Green mussel is a great source of protein. It supplies almost 40% of the recommended dietary allowance of protein for men and 41% of that for women.

3. Contains Iron:

Consuming green mussels can help prevent anemia. Lack of iron in the body can lead to anemia. Green mussels contain approximately 10.9 milligrams of iron. If you are over 50, then that takes care of your daily recommended intake of iron! Even people who are below 50, a serving of green mussels can give them around 50-60% RDA of iron. This iron helps the body to make hemoglobin and prevent anemia.

4. Source Of Vitamin B12:

A 100 gram serving of cooked green mussels contains around 20 milligrams of Vitamin B12, which is essential for the pregnant women. Vitamin B12 helps in the production of red blood cells and DNA. It also helps your nervous system work properly.

5. Rich In Omega-3:

Green mussel is rich in natural Omega-3 fatty acids. A human body cannot produce omega-3 fatty acid and needs to take it from other sources. Green Mussel is the best source of omega-3 and polyunsaturated fat. Omega-3 helps to prevent inflammation and reduce the risk of stroke, heart diseases and arthritis. Omega-3 is also good for brain development.

6. Solution For Joint Pain:

As you grow older, your body generally suffers from back pain, joint pain, finger stiffness and inflammation in the joints. Green mussel can help to get rid of various inflammatory problems. It protects the digestive tract, enhances your immune system and delays the process of aging too.

7. Relief In Arthritis And Other Bone Related Problems:

Green mussels for arthritis shows effective results with in in a short span. It gives instant relief from the pain of arthritis and has great healing properties. The manganese present in green mussel gives you healthy bones and enhances the metabolism of the body—all of which ensures the good health of your bones.

8. Helps In Treating Asthma And Bronchitis:

Green mussels contain high quantity of amino acids, carbohydrates and minerals as well as other important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin B12, which are helpful in providing relief from asthma and bronchitis.

9. Boosts Your Immune System:

Green Mussels are rich in minerals, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, zinc, potassium, iron, calcium, manganese, phosphorus, etc. These nutrients work together to make your immune system healthier. They also ensure proper functioning of the thyroid gland. All these factors ensure that you stay free of common ailments like cold and flu.

10. Improves Your Cardiovascular Strength:

Green mussel contains a very low level of saturated fat and is rich in omega-3 fatty acid, which is good for your cardiovascular health. The omega-3 present in the green mussels not only keeps your cardiovascular system healthy, but is also effective for blood streaming and brain functioning. It minimizes the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases.

The Maoris are a strong lot and now you know why! So, give green mussels a try and live a healthier life!

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