Seaweed and its health benefits
For most people who are not into Asian food, or probably never heard of any of them, seaweed would probably come as a surprise, and this is definitely not as surprising as the fact that it’s actually edible! And a nutritious one too! Seaweed has always been something that’s related to, well, just the sea and maybe sometimes adorning the aquarium, but definitely not something that you might cook and eat it. But here’s the surprise. Seaweed is one of the most nutritious and healthiest diet you would ever come across.
Of course, this is not something that is confined to only Asia, seaweed is also very much prevelant in Britain and Ireland. So what makes this simple plant a must-have in your diet?
For beginners, it’s a major storehouse of proteins and enormous amount of minerals. This is on account of the fact that it comes from the sea. It also acts as a nutritious alternative to salt, since it is naturally blended with one. Seaweed is a package of all the minerals humans need for well being – sodium, potassium, zinc, iron and magnesium.
Like all the other power food, seaweed also contains vitamin A, Vitamin C, vitamin B (all of them). Since they contain algae in them, they bind to the heavy metals and efficiently eliminate from the body. Seaweed is also known to treat osteoporosis, due to the abundant amount of calcium in it.
Seaweed is also known for being a powerhouse for iodine, which without saying goes as a must for people who suffer goiter or other iodine deficiency. It’s also seen to improve brain development.
It’s also loaded with a large amount of dietary fibers which further acts as an anti-tumor, anti-mutagen and also an excellent anticoagulant.
Seaweed is also very important for a smoother functioning of body as it regulates the digestion of the food, improves the immunity of the body and also clears the intestine.
Seaweed is not just useful for the health, but also adds luster to hair, making it thicker and shinier.
The use of seaweed also stretches over to skin care. Since it contains a wide range of vitamins, it makes sure the skin keeps its vitality and health. For this, you might want to try the skin products available in the market that is specially designed along with the seaweed.
I love seaweed! I make sure I have them at home to toss into salads or soups. These days, mostly soup since it’s autumn.
Miso soup with wakame tastes wonderful but regular clear soup (like broth) with added wakame is an easy way to get to know seaweed.