Seaweed - Long Term Health Benefits

Long Term Health Benefits of Seaweed

When you think of seaweed, what comes to mind? Slimy ocean plants? Mouth-watering sushi? Roasted sheets of nori (a popular Asian snack)? Whatever the association, it’s safe to say most of us have encountered seaweed at some point in our life. But how much do you know about this superfood of the sea? And should you even care?

The Original Superfood of the Sea

Although seaweed is overlooked in many parts of the world in comparison to land plants, its edible species actually contain nutrient dense properties and minerals not commonly found in other produce, as well as a host of health benefits when consumed regularly. These include supporting a healthy gut, protecting the heart, and helping with thyroid function, diabetes, weight loss and more. While seaweed has been a valued dietary staple in East Asia for thousands of years, its lack of popularity among Western palates has kept it from being enjoyed on a truly global scale – until recently. In 2008, FarmaSea® developed a 100% natural seaweed supplement that makes reaping the health benefits of seaweed more accessible and efficient than ever before.

Below is a breakdown of the most highly touted, research-backed benefits associated with seaweed and how its natural properties directly translate to body health.

Super Nutritious

Seaweed contains an impressive array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that play vital roles in supporting the body’s internal functions. For instance, its high concentrations of iron and iodine are critical in maintaining a healthy body, whereas its immune system boosting antioxidants help to ward off many forms of cellular oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Seaweed is also a low calorie, high protein source of carbohydrates, healthy fiber and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Vitamins such as A, B, C, E, are responsible for providing varied important functions, and it’s it’s important to note that many of seaweed’s vitamins and minerals aren’t found in land plants or sea animals, further highlighting its value

Supports Healthy Thyroid Function

One of the reasons iodine is critically important to have and maintain in your body is because the thyroid gland relies on it to run efficiently. The thyroid gland is responsible for releasing hormones and controlling the levels of hormones in the body. In particular, the thyroid is responsible for cellular repair, energy production and general growth. A deficiency of iodine causes an under-active thyroid, which can lead to health complications such as the development of a goiter, an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland that when particularly severe, can cause a cough and make it hard to swallow or breathe.

Helps with Weight loss

Seaweed possesses a high concentration of fiber, which helps in feeling full longer. According to a study in Marine Drugs, dietary fiber delays stomach emptying, which may result in less snacking and hunger signals to the brain. Aside from possibly preventing overeating, the compound fucoxanthin found in seaweed actively attacks fat.

Good for your Heart

Research has shown that seaweed will help stave off heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular illnesses. This is due to the presence of the vitamin B9 and folate found within. B9 converts amino acids into harmless molecules as opposed to homocysteine, which in high levels can lead to heart disease. In addition, just two sheets of seaweed per day will give you over 150% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K, which strengthens bones while also preventing calcium build-up in the body.

Diabetes Management

Seaweed has been proven to help control existing cases of diabetes and help to prevent the development of diabetes in those who are at risk. Its high fiber content works to help regulate insulin and blood glucose levels. Some studies have proven that seaweed contains compounds that help reduce high blood sugar, which is a marker of type 2 diabetes. In 2014, the medical journal Nutrition Reviews published findings that seaweed helps to reduce fat levels, and reduce insulin sensitivity. Another factor of diabetes that is reduced by seaweed consumption is inflammation. By reducing these factors, people who have diabetes are able to keep their condition under control.

Vegan

Since Vegans don’t rely on meat, fish and dairy to fulfill their nutritional needs, Seaweed offers an impactful shot of nutrients, vitamins and minerals that help to sustain bodily health (as noted in Nutrition Reviews’ article, Nutritional Value of Edible Seaweeds.

Try Sea Veg® Today

Seaweed is an invaluable addition to any diet, and taking Sea Veg® supplements is an effortless way to be proactive about your health. Whether you’re a health nut or just casually interested in adding nutritional value to your diet, Sea Veg®’s is sure to have a product suited to you. Sustainably harvested from pristine oceans across the globe, Sea Veg 90®, Sea Veg 180®, Super Sea Veg 180®, Sea Veg Junior® and Sea Veggy Tails® supplements contain a unique premium blend of 12 nutrient-rich sea plant species. If you’re committed to ecological health consciousness and empowering your health, Sea Veg®‘s line of 100% organic, vegan, gluten free, whole food supplements are perfect for you.