Inexpensive yet Nutritious Seafood: Mussel

It is about time that we discussed seafood; we are in an Atlantic province after all. The item that we will focus on in this post is mussel. Mussels are harvested and available year-round in Canada. As such, mussels are common and affordable seafood at that.

As usual, let’s first look at what modern-day nutrition facts tell us about mussels. Mussels have a high protein content. Proteins are used as a source of muscle growth, maintenance, and tissue repair, as well as the formation of skin, hair, and nails. Protein also has other functions such as the production and controlling activities of hormones like insulin, aiding in digestion, sustaining the sensation of fullness, and supporting our metabolism.  Mussels also contain abundant vitamins B12, iron, and zinc which are all essential for producing blood and backing our immune system. Vitamin B12 and iron are also important nutrients for nervous system function. Rich omega-3 fatty acids content in mussels also help to improve cardiovascular health (treat and prevent atherosclerosis) and reduce inflammation. Antioxidant contents are also high in mussels, therefore preventing cell damage from harmful free radicals.  

Mussels are warm in nature. Its taste includes both salty and sweet flavours. It is known to tonify Kidneys and Liver, support Yang, benefit Essence and Blood, soften and dissipate nodules and goitres like those of the thyroid gland, and stop bleeding. This means that mussels can be good for those who frequently feel dizzy or experience tinnitus due to weak Kidneys and lack of Essence. Kidney-deficient people may also experience lots of sweats during sleep. Weak Kidneys can also result in weak & sore lower back or impotence (erectile dysfunction). In this last case, it is recommended that mussel is used in making soup along with plenty of chives. It is also good for those who have irregular menstruation and frequent uterine bleeding or profuse leukorrhea/vaginal discharge that is thin and watery in quality (this is due to excess or deficient Cold in the lower abdomen). When there is a goitre, it is effective to consume a dish like braised mussels with kelp/kombu or sea laver.

Mussel is cautioned for those who have excessive Damp-Heat in the body, which can manifest as symptoms like jaundice, dysentery or foul diarrhea, and urinary tract infection. This makes sense when we think about the warm nature and the Essence and Blood-nourishing properties of the mussels (oftentimes too much Essence/Blood/Yin nourishing foods can lead to Dampness accumulation). Since most Canadians like to eat mussels with butter, it is also worthwhile that we talk about butter. Butter is also nourishing for Yin but as it has high calorie and high lipid content, overconsumption can lead to weight gain and is not advised for people with high cholesterol and atherosclerosis. Mussels are quite flavourful themselves and butter may not be necessary. We can also opt to use plant-sourced oil with some herbs instead of butter.