Sisi: 6 Health Benefits of Rock Oyster, and Side Effects

April 2, 2024 by Lauro Braganza

Are you on the hunt for a delicious and nutritious seafood option? Look no further than the rock oyster! This humble mollusk may not be as famous as its cousin, the Pacific oyster, but it packs a punch regarding health benefits. From boosting your immune system to improving brain function, rock oysters have it all. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the health benefits of rock oysters—their description, nutrition facts, and even their side effects.

What is Rock Oyster

Rock oyster, scientifically known as Saccostrea glomerata, is a fascinating mollusk that goes by several other names, such as Sisi, in the Philippines. This bivalve shellfish boasts an impressive appearance and a distinct taste that seafood enthusiasts adore.

The rock oyster’s hard shell and rough exterior display a rugged charm. It typically measures around 3 to 4 inches in length but can grow up to 10 inches! The shell’s outer surface consists of wavy ridges and a mixture of colors ranging from pale gray to dark brown. When opened, you’ll find the inner side exquisitely smooth with hints of iridescent blue or green.

benefits-of-rock-oyster — Rock Oyster (English), Sisi (Hiligaynon/Ilonggo)

As for its physical characteristics, the rock oyster has two hinged shells connected by a strong adductor muscle. Inside these shells lies the edible part: plump flesh intermingled with briny seawater. The taste profile offers a delightful combination of creaminess and saltiness, enhanced by subtle mineral undertones.

In terms of habitat, rock oysters thrive in coastal waters worldwide. They attach themselves firmly to rocks or other hard surfaces using their powerful muscles, allowing them to withstand crashing waves and strong currents. These resilient creatures prefer temperate climates with cool water temperatures rich in nutrients.

The captivating nature of rock oysters extends beyond their visual appeal; they also pack quite a punch nutritionally! From protein to vitamins (including B12) and minerals like zinc and iron – rock oysters are nutrient powerhouses packed into one delicate package!

Rock Oyster Nutrition Per 100g

Rock oysters are a type of mollusk, and their nutritional content can vary based on factors such as their size, growing conditions, and local environment. However, I can provide you with a general overview of the nutritional composition of raw oysters (100g serving):

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary:

Calories: ~68 kcal
Protein: ~9 g
Carbohydrates: ~4 g
- Dietary Fiber: 0 g
- Sugars: ~2 g
Fat: ~2 g
- Saturated Fat: ~0.4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~1.6 g
Cholesterol: ~53 mg
Sodium: ~232 mg
Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin D: ~320 IU (varies widely based on sun exposure of oysters)
- Vitamin B12: ~18 µg
- Zinc: ~33 mg
- Iron: ~3.5 mg
- Selenium: ~63.3 µg
- Copper: ~2.3 mg

Oysters are known for being rich in various nutrients, especially vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. However, their nutritional content can vary depending on the specific species of oyster, their growing conditions, and other environmental factors. Additionally, cooking methods or preparation can affect the nutritional profile of oysters.

Always remember that these values are approximate and can vary, so it’s a good idea to refer to specific nutritional information provided by trusted sources or food databases if you need precise information for dietary planning.

6 Health Benefits of Rock Oyster

Rock oysters are not just a delectable seafood delicacy but also offer numerous health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients, these little gems from the ocean can boost your overall well-being in various ways.

Rock oysters are a type of bivalve mollusk that is found in shallow, rocky waters. They are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals and have been linked to several health benefits.

Here are some of the health benefits of rock oysters:

High in zinc: Rock oysters are an excellent source of zinc, which is an essential mineral for the immune system, wound healing, and reproductive health. A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of rock oysters provides more than 700% of the Daily Value (DV) for zinc.
Good source of vitamin B12: Rock oysters are also a good source of vitamin B12, which is important for brain health, energy production, and red blood cell formation. A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of rock oysters provides more than 500% of the DV for vitamin B12.
May boost heart health: Rock oysters contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of rock oysters provides about 300 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids.
May boost sexual health: Rock oysters are a good source of zinc, which is important for testosterone production and sexual health.
May help with weight loss: Rock oysters are low in calories and fat and are a good protein source. Protein can help you feel full and satisfied, which can be helpful for weight loss.
May improve gut health: Rock oysters contain prebiotics, which is a type of fiber that can help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. A healthy gut microbiome is important for overall health and well-being.

It is important to note that rock oysters can contain harmful bacteria, so it is important to eat them only from reputable sources that have been properly processed.

The recommended serving size for rock oysters is 6-12 per day. However, it is best to talk to your doctor before increasing your intake of rock oysters, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a chronic health condition.

Overall, rock oysters are a nutritious food that has been linked to several health benefits. However, it is important to eat them only from reputable sources and in moderation.

Side Effects and Disadvantages of Rock Oyster

While rock oysters offer numerous health benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and disadvantages associated with their consumption. Here are five things you should keep in mind:

1. Allergy Risk: Some individuals may have allergic reactions to shellfish like rock oysters. Symptoms can range from mild itching or hives to more severe reactions such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or throat. If you have a known shellfish allergy, avoiding consuming rock oysters is best.

2. Contamination Concerns: Shellfish can sometimes accumulate toxins from their environment, particularly during harmful algal blooms (red tides). These toxins can cause illness if consumed by humans. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the rock oysters you consume come from clean waters and undergo proper testing for safety.

3. High Cholesterol Content: While rock oysters are rich in nutrients, they also contain high levels of cholesterol compared to other seafood options. Individuals with high cholesterol levels or heart disease should moderate their intake accordingly.

4. Bacterial Infections: Raw or undercooked rock oysters pose a risk of bacterial infections such as Vibrio vulnificus or norovirus. These infections can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. It is recommended that vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems avoid consuming raw shellfish.

5. Purine Content: Rock oysters contain purines—a compound that breaks down into uric acid in the body—in relatively high amounts compared to some other foods.

Dietary purines contribute directly to serum uric acid concentrations, potentially increasing the risk of gout attacks in susceptible individuals.

Consulting with a healthcare professional regarding dietary suitability is advised for those who are prone to gout attacks.

How to Eat Rock Oyster

Rock oysters can be enjoyed in various preparations, each offering a unique flavor and texture. Here are some common ways to enjoy rock oysters:

Raw: Freshly shucked raw oysters are a popular delicacy. They are often served on the half shell with lemon wedges, mignonette sauce, or cocktail sauce. To eat them, use a small fork to detach the oyster from the shell and then slurp it from the shell.
Cooked: Oysters can be cooked in various ways, such as grilling, baking, broiling, or frying—the oyster’s texture changes from soft and delicate to firmer when cooking. Grilled oysters, for example, can be topped with butter, garlic, and herbs before grilling until they’re just cooked through.
Smoked: Smoking oysters can add a rich, smoky flavor to them. Smoked oysters are often packed in oil and can be enjoyed as appetizers, added to salads, or used in various dishes to add depth of flavor.
Canned: Canned oysters are convenient and can be used in various recipes. They can be found whole, chopped, or smoked and added to soups, stews, pasta dishes, and more.
Fermented: Oysters can be fermented to create a delicacy called “oyster sauce.” This sauce is commonly used in Asian cuisine to add umami flavor to dishes. It’s made by fermenting oysters along with other ingredients like soy sauce and sometimes added flavors.
Dried: Dried oysters are often used in Chinese cuisine, particularly in soups and stews. They add a concentrated flavor to the dishes and rehydrate during cooking.
Rock Oyster Pearl: Occasionally, pearls can be found in rock oysters. These pearls are typically smaller and less valuable than the pearls from oysters specifically cultivated for pearl production. However, they can still have some value and can be used for jewelry.

Remember that the specific preparation methods and flavor profiles can vary based on regional cuisines and personal preferences. When trying different preparations, make sure to follow proper food safety practices, especially when consuming raw or partially cooked oysters.

Conclusion

Rock oysters are not only a delicious seafood delicacy but also offer numerous health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients, these shellfish can contribute to overall well-being and improve various aspects of our health.

The rich nutritional profile of rock oysters includes high levels of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins (such as vitamin B12 and vitamin D), minerals (like zinc, iron, and selenium), and antioxidants. These elements work together to support immune function, promote heart health, enhance brain function, boost energy levels, strengthen bones and teeth, improve skin complexion, aid in weight management, and even increase fertility.

However, it’s essential to be mindful of potential side effects or disadvantages associated with consuming rock oysters. Some individuals may experience allergies or adverse reactions due to the presence of certain proteins in the shellfish. Moreover