Sea vegetables or seaweed are forms of algae that grow in the sea. It can grow in a variety of waters, including seas, lakes, and rivers. The edible seaweed is classified by its color. The most commonly eaten types are blue-green, red, brown, and green. Consuming seaweed is a super-healthy and nutritious way to add extra vitamins and minerals to your diet. Regularly consuming can even boost health and help protect from certain diseases.
Nutrient content
Seaweed is loaded with many minerals and trace elements. These sea vegetables contain higher levels of these nutrients than most other foods. Its nutrient content can vary based on where it was grown. However different types will contain different amounts of nutrients. 1 cup of seaweed provides you with the below things:
- Calories: 44
- Protein: 5 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
- Carbs: 7 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Folate: 12%
- Riboflavin: 21%
- Thiamin: 14%
- Copper: 55%
- Iron: 20%
- Magnesium: 16%
Seaweed’s Health Benefits
1. Digestive Health
Seaweed improves digestive health. As it is loaded with fiber that can help prevent constipation and ensure smooth digestion. Seaweed has carrageenan, fucoidans, and agar that act as prebiotics. While prebiotics is a type of nondigestible fiber that feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut. According to studies, prebiotics present in seaweed can have certain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Some prebiotics have the ability to block harmful bacteria. The more good bacteria you have in your gut, the less space there is for harmful bacteria to grow.
2. Support Thyroid Function
The thyroid plays several important roles in the body. It regulates metabolism. The thyroid gland releases hormones to help control growth, reproduction, energy production, and the repair of damaged cells in your body. An individual’s thyroid depends on iodine to make hormones. While without enough amount of iodine, one will start experiencing symptoms such as weight changes, fatigue, or swelling of the neck over time. However, seaweed has the unique ability to absorb concentrated amounts of iodine from the ocean. And it is rich in iodine.
3. Weight Management
Consuming seaweed regularly may help you lose weight. Seaweed contains a lot of fiber, which does not contain any calories. Fiber help decrease hunger and enhance feelings of fullness. This sea vegetable has the ability to affect the weight-regulating hormone leptin. Seaweed contains fucoidan which can enhance fat breakdown and prevent its formation.
4. Benefits The Skin
Seaweed contains amino acids that boost the skin’s elasticity and assist in the healing of fine lines. Its wraps are beneficial for treating cellulite. Seaweed act as a detoxifier by clearing toxins and metals. Because of seaweed’s anti-inflammatory properties, it can cure eczema.
5. Protects The Heart
Seaweed has some nutrients that may help to keep the heart healthy. It is a good source of soluble fiber. Seaweed contains omega-3 fatty acids. According to studies seaweed have the ability to reduce blood pressure and prevent blood clotting. It can even support reducing the LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and total cholesterol levels.