The Health Benefits of Clams for Men

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Clams are among the 10 best foods for men’s health

If you thought the correlation between clams and sex was all off-color jokes, think again. Those who are wondering, “Are clams good for you?” may be surprised to discover the health benefits of clams. It’s incredible, how beneficial these shellfish are when it comes to health, particularly for men’s health.

Some surprising clams benefits and side effects

So what can clams do for you? One of the most remarkable clam nutritional benefits is that they help raise levels of norepinephrine.

What does this mean in layman’s terms and why should we get excited? Norepinephrine is both a hormone and a neurotransmitter that helps you focus and, in bursts, causes feelings of euphoria. A lack of Norepinephrine is associated with depression. So taking it in naturally, from foods like clams, can be essential to boosting mood. And let’s face it, you need to be in a good mood to get into the mood for love.

view the list of all 10 Best Foods for Men’s Sexual Health

Are clams good for you? – A source of nutrients to support men’s health

In addition to supporting mental health, the health benefits of clams include a wide range of vitamins and minerals. A quick look at clam nutrition facts will tell you that clams are a source of nutrients including:

Manganese
Magnesium
Vitamin B12
Phosphorous
Potassium
Zinc
Selenium

All of these nutrients are considered key to men’s sexual health.

Additional health benefits of clams

Clams provide iron, copper, choline. And one of the best clam meat benefits is that it is a great source of healthy, lean protein. In fact, a serving of clams contains about 22 grams of protein, which is 44% of your daily protein requirement. And the protein in clams, while it isn’t necessary for sex drive, gives you the energy for sexual performance.

The cholesterol in clams

It should be noted that clams are considered one of the higher cholesterol forms of seafood. However, according to Harvard Health Publishing, they are not bad for heart health. And when considered as a protein source as compared with red meat, clams come out on top. (That is, of course, unless you’re considering fried clams, which can be loaded with trans fats. When eating for your libido, fried clams and other fried shellfish should be avoided at all costs.)

One of clams benefits that may jumpstart libido

There is also an indication that clams nutrition can do even more for your libido than providing some nutrients to support sexual hormones. A study released in 2005 offered preliminary indications that two amino acids found in bivalve mollusks (including clams, oysters and mussels) stimulate the production of sexual hormones.

To what degree, or how many clams need to be consumed for such stimulating effects is yet unclear. But it certainly makes a great argument for eating more seafood.

Although we consider clams a standout for men’s sexual health, clams are historically considered aphrodisiacs for both sexes.

One of our favorite recipes featuring clams

Clams, Mussels and Cockles with Green Cabbage and Coconut Curry

10 Best Foods For Men
Up Next: Garlic

Edited by Delahna Flagg: This article was reviewed and additional research provided by Center for Mind-Body Medicine certified practitioner and Eat Something Sexy Nutrition Director Delahna Flagg.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this article is intended for informational purposes only. It is important to consult your physician before making dietary changes.

Sources
https://www.endocrine.org/patient-engagement/endocrine-library/hormones-and-endocrine-function/adrenal-hormones
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/1099101/nutrients
https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/shellfish-for-the-heart
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/1486054/Raw-oysters-really-are-aphrodisiacs-say-scientists-and-now-is-the-time-to-eat-them.html

Clams photo by Adrien Sala

This article was written in 2015 and most recently updated in April 2021.

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Amy Reiley

An award-winning author of five aphrodisiac cookbooks with an MA in Gastronomy, Amy Reiley has spent the past 18 years studying the history and science behind aphrodisiac foods. She speaks on aphrodisiacs globally and has brought her knowledge of aphrodisiac foods to national television shows including The Today Show and CBS Early Show. Amy is also a freelance food, wine and health writer and wine competition judge. Her work has appeared in publications ranging from Variety to The Daily Meal. She is a former wine editor for Gayot.com and wine & spirits editor of Las Vegas magazine. Most importantly, Amy is a mother to 2 human children and 1 standard poodle.