Seafood such as mussels is often found in Mediterranean cuisine. These bivalve marine molluscs can be distinguished by their smooth, wedge-shaped oval shells of purple, brownish-golden or greenish-yellow color.
Several centuries ago, mussels were consumed in huge quantities by the poor inhabitants of Mediterranean villages, with which shellfish were substituted for almost all dishes. Now the product is considered a great delicacy and is in short supply, since the number of these marine life has greatly decreased.
Mussels play the role of a kind of filters in nature, they purify the water in which they are located from various contaminants. But all these evil spirits can accumulate in the mollusk itself over time, in which case its meat can even be dangerous. On the other hand, mussels are considered a very nutritious and incredibly healthy product, nutritionists recommend including them in any dietary or medical menu.
The calorie content of mussels is quite low. They contain 75-80 kcal per 100 g of product. About 3% of calories are polyunsaturated fats, which have a high biological value. About 4% of the mussel composition is carbohydrates. In terms of the amount of protein, shellfish surpass sea fish and beef. Contains in the meat of mussels and other useful substances: iron, calcium, vitamins E and D, selenium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, a large amount of mineral salts, almost all vitamins of group B, zinc, amino acids.
Doctors recommend mussel meat to increase immunity, strengthen the body after intense mental and physical exertion. This useful product is included in the menu for certain blood diseases. Mussels contain enzymes that improve digestion, as well as glycogen, which helps maintain optimal blood glucose levels.
Mussels have long been considered a full-fledged natural analogue of Viagra, therefore they are recommended to be used to increase male strength, as well as to increase libido, and not only in men, but also in women.
Gynecologists strongly recommend the use of mussels for married couples who cannot have children, since shellfish contain a substance that increases the viscosity of the seminal fluid in men. The unique composition of mussels allows you to postpone menopause in women and alleviate severe premenopausal symptoms.
It has long been proven that mussels have a persistent anti-aging effect. Those women who regularly consume this useful product are less likely to suffer from various skin diseases, they have fewer age-related wrinkles, the skin acquires elasticity, becomes more toned. The condition of the hair also improves, it gains strength, healthy shine. In some cases, the disappearance of gray hair is noted.
Mussels are also used for culinary purposes. However, it is important here that the mollusks are completely intact, the valves must be tightly closed. You can eat the mantle of mussels, the tender, light meat part and the inner liquid.
If the shells of the mollusk did not open after heat treatment, it is not recommended to use such a product in food.
Mussels can be subjected to any heat treatment: fry, stew with tomato, garlic and cream sauces, boil. In addition, mussels are salted, pickled, smoked, and also included in pilaf, stews, salads or soups.
