Most of us know that dark leafy greens, fish, and berries are good for us. In fact, these ingredients are often classified as superfoods, which is why many of us include them in our weekly meal plans.
One item that might not be on your shopping list is sea moss. It's an algae (singular word for algae) that is making waves in the wellness world, and many health-conscious people include it in their recipes.
Throughout this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the possible benefits and side effects of sea moss, and why it is a popular addition to many supplements.
What is sea moss?
Sea moss, scientifically known as Chondrus crispus, is a type of algae or seaweed, found on the Atlantic coasts of North America, Europe and the Caribbean islands. It is known as red algae, although it often comes in many colors, most popularly yellow or gold and purple, but you can also find rarer colors such as blue and green.
Its low calorie and fat count means sea moss is popular for its suggested range of health benefits, which can help maintain a healthy lifestyle. It contains a small amount of protein, as well as offering a variety of vitamins and minerals and is also a great source of iodine and antioxidants.
Health Benefits of Sea Moss
Top 10 Potential Benefits of Sea Moss
Often claimed to be a brand new superfood, there are some potential health benefits to adding sea moss to your diet. However, before you start taking sea moss in any form, it is important that you check with your GP to make sure it is safe for you. Here are the top 10 potential benefits of sea moss:
1.Might support your digestive function
Sea moss is a good source of live bacteria and fiber, which are known to support gut health.
2.Might support your thyroid
Sea moss contains iodine, which is good for the thyroid and potentially provides weight loss support. However, if you are already taking medication to support your iodine deficiency, it is probably worth investigating this further.
3.It could give you more energy
Sea moss contains iron, which is a great way to maintain your energy levels. Lack of iron can make you feel tired and lethargic.
4.Might help nourish your skin
Sea moss contains magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin K, and omega-3 fatty acids that hydrate and support healthy skin cell function.
5.Might support your immunity
While there is no specific study in humans, a study on salmon suggested that sea moss may help build the body's immune response.
6.It is believed to help improve mood
Sea moss has about twice as much potassium as an average-sized banana. Potassium is a very important mineral that helps maintain mental and emotional health
7.Might support your heart health
Some studies suggest that sea moss may lower cholesterol and help thin the blood. However, this is unproven and requires further research in humans.
8.Can help control blood sugar
A study on seaweed, such as sea moss, found the compound fucoxanthin, which is believed to normalize high blood sugar levels.
9.It is believed to be an aphrodisiac
Natives of the Caribbean have been using sea moss as a natural aphrodisiac for many years. Its high zinc content is believed to increase sex hormones that play a key role in libido levels.
10.Might support your overall health and well-being
Sea moss is a powerful superfood that is packed with minerals and nutrients that can help your body function healthily. 14
However, it's worth remembering that there isn't much research on the benefits of sea moss and it may not provide all the nutrients you need. Follow a healthy, balanced diet and use sea moss as a supplement if you wish.
There are also many other plant-based supplements on the market, so it's worth doing your research to find the right ones for you.
Summary
Possible side effects of sea moss
There are many things we don't know about eating sea moss and how it interacts with our bodies. While sea moss is generally thought to be safe for most of us, it's worth using a little caution. Choose reputable manufacturers and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
It's also a good idea to avoid eating too much sea moss. Sea moss is a good source of iodine and other heavy metals, and while it's not bad for you in small amounts, taking too much could lead to iodine poisoning and make you feel unwell.
Stick to the recommended serving size and use moderation when adding this superfood to your diet, just to be safe.
How to include more sea moss in your diet
There are many ways to add sea moss to your diet, as it comes in many forms, from powder to whole. One of the most popular forms today is sea moss gel. Sea moss gel is derived from sea moss and is sometimes used as a thickening or stabilizing agent in foods, medicines, and cosmetics. Sea moss gel benefits from the same excellent properties as sea moss, as it is high in minerals such as iodine and potassium.
It has a mild flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in your cupboard. You can try adding sea moss to smoothies, smoothies, soups, stews, jams, spreads, cakes, baked goods, or even ice cream.
As with all supplements and superfoods, don't expect a miracle from a single ingredient. Do your best to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle, adding supplements based on your unique nutritional needs.
Can you take sea moss every day?
Sea moss is a great source of various vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants that can benefit overall health. However, its nutritional structure can fluctuate, and by consuming it in large quantities, you can ingest high levels of iodine or heavy metals, which can be harmful.
Overall, scientists need to do more research on the effects of sea moss on human health to determine its value in consumer health products.
Still, from what we already know, some of the benefits look promising based on studies of seaweed and seaweed.
Conclusion
Sea moss is a spiky sea vegetable, which is a good source of a variety of vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants that can benefit overall health.
However, it has different nutritional properties, and when used in significant quantities, it can consume high levels of iodine or heavy metals. Overall, more research is needed on the purported health benefits of sea moss on humans, but early effects are promising in studies on similar types of seaweed.
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