![Are Green Mussels Good for You](https://images.medicinenet.com/images/article/main_image/are-green-mussels-good-to-eat.jpg?output-quality=75)
Green mussels are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory nutrients, making them excellent for your health.
The green-lipped mussel is native to New Zealand and has become popular as a supplement, available in freeze-dried, ground, and capsule form. It is believed to help treat a variety of inflammatory conditions, although many of the health claims are not backed by sufficient scientific studies.
Learn about the nutrient contents, potential health benefits, and side effects of green mussels.
What is the nutritional profile of green mussels?
Mussels are high in nutritional value. Nutrients in a 3-ounce serving of steamed mussels include:
Mussels are high in vitamins and minerals such as:
9 potential health benefits of green mussels
1. May reduce asthma
Green mussels have anti-inflammatory properties that have been studied for their effect on conditions such as asthma. In one study, people with asthma who consumed green-lipped mussels had a significant reduction in airway inflammation and daytime wheezing
2. May relieve arthritis symptoms
The anti-inflammatory properties of green mussels may also help reduce the joint inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have shown that people of New Zealand's Maori coast whose diet is high in green-lipped mussels have lower rates of arthritis.
3. Rich in protein
Protein is responsible for many cellular functions in your body, including structural support, cellular communication, and overall health. Eating protein-rich foods allows the body to absorb amino acids, which are the nutritional building blocks of protein. One cup of mussels contains nearly 18 grams of protein, which is approximately 30% of the average person's daily requirement.
4. Improves brain health
Mussels are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for the brain. They are rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and vitamin B12, two essential nutrients that protect cognitive function and memory as you age. According to studies, DHA considerably delays age-related cognitive decline. One 3-ounce serving of green mussels also has 340% of the recommended dietary allowance for vitamin B12, which is crucial for brain and nerve health.
5. Promotes blood circulation
Omega-3 fatty acids in green mussels also play a role in improving blood flow and arterial wall strength, allowing for healthy circulation to important organs and muscles.
6. Protects heart health
According to studies, the high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids found in mussels makes them beneficial for protecting heart health. These unsaturated fats have properties that reduce the risk of high cholesterol, irregular heartbeats, heart attack, and other heart problems.
7. Helps prevent anemia
Mussels are an excellent source of iron. In fact, a 100-gram serving of cooked mussels contains more than 100% of the daily recommended amount for adults older than 50 years. Iron plays a significant role in the production of oxygen-carrying proteins hemoglobin and myoglobin.
8. Strengthens tissues
One 6-ounce serving of mussels contains 30% of the daily required dose of vitamin C, which is essential for the development of strong tissues, such as tendons and ligaments. Vitamin C also helps maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
9. Anti-aging properties
Green mussels contain mucopolysaccharides, which tend to decline with age and are responsible for helping maintain smooth, supple skin.
![](https://images.medicinenet.com/images/quiz/diet-and-nutrition/diet-and-nutrition-s1.jpg)
QUESTION
According to the USDA, there is no difference between a “portion” and a “serving.” See AnswerWhat are the potential risks of green mussels?
Mercury content
Some people avoid eating shellfish because they are concerned about mercury content. Although most fish and shellfish contain mercury, eating up to 12 ounces per week should not be harmful to your health unless you are pregnant, in which case you should avoid green mussels or green mussel supplements.
Allergies
Allergic reactions to shellfish are common and can be life-threatening. If you are allergic to shellfish, you should avoid green-lipped mussels.
What is the recommended dosage of green mussels?
There is currently insufficient scientific evidence to establish an appropriate dose range for New Zealand green-lipped mussels.
Remember that natural products are not always safe, and supplements should always be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Mussels: Are They Good for You? https://www.webmd.com/diet/mussels-good-for-you#091e9c5e81ff6e85-1-3
New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussel - Uses, Side Effects, and More https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-830/new-zealand-green-lipped-mussel
The use of green mussel as bioindicator of heavy metal pollution in Indonesia: a review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8850165/
Top Are Green Mussels Good for You Related Articles
Can Vitamin B12 Reverse Premature Gray Hair?
If vitamin B12 deficiency is the cause of premature graying, then it can be reversed with vitamin B12 supplementation.Diet and Nutrition: Fatty Fish That Are High in Omega-3s
You may know that omega-3s are good fats that you get from seafood. But not all fish are equal. The fatty ones are best. WebMD's slideshow shows you the choice picks.Is Fish Oil an Antidepressant?
Fish oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which play an essential role in your brain’s functions. There have been studies that show omega-3 fatty acids may help treat depression in some people.Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that help decrease one's cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Omega-3s are found in salmon, sardines, walnuts, and canola oil. These fats may help reduce the risk of ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac death.Omega-3 Fatty Acids
What does research say are the best omega 3 supplements? What are the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids? Learn how Omega 3 rich foods like fish oil, salmon, walnuts, & more can boost brain power, save you from joint pain, ease depression and create a healthier you.Food and Recipes: Top Foods High in Iron
WebMD shows you which foods to choose that are high in iron -- and tasty, too!Signs You’re Low on Vitamin B12
Your body needs vitamin B12 to keep blood cells healthy and to make your nerves work right. But what happens when you run low?What Are the 3 Stages of Iron Deficiency?
Iron is an important substance that our body needs in minute amounts. Daily ingestion of iron is needed for the health of red blood cells and muscle proteins, as well as the functioning of body cells. The normal body iron content in an adult is approximately 3-4 grams.What Are the Signs of a Zinc Deficiency?
Symptoms of zinc deficiency include poor appetite, weaker immune system, slow wound healing, loss of taste and smell, and more.