Algae have risen to fame
A Glimpse on Seaweeds
It has been known for a long time that seaweed contains many nutrients. These nutrients include iodine, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, vitamin B12, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients can be found in minerals or organic compounds such as proteins, carbohydrates, polyunsaturated fats, and vitamins. In addition to this, seaweeds contain antioxidants, which help prevent diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. In the past, people used seaweeds as food because it was easy to find and inexpensive. However, nowadays, there is an increasing interest in seaweeds due to their nutritional value.
Why do we need to eat seaweed?
Seaweed is full of nutrients that our bodies need. These nutrients include iodine, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc. Our bodies cannot produce these nutrients independently, so we must get them through our diet.
Iodine
Iodine is necessary for thyroid function. Many people have problems with their thyroid gland, especially when they are pregnant. Therefore, consuming seaweed can help maintain normal thyroid function.
Iron
Iron is needed by the body to make red blood cells. When we don’t get enough iron, our red blood cell count will drop. As a result, our blood becomes less oxygenated, and our muscles become weak. Eating seaweed can help keep us strong and energized.
Calcium
Calcium is essential for bone growth and development. Without sufficient calcium, bones become brittle and break easily. However, too much calcium can cause kidney stones.
Magnesium
Magnesium is required for muscle contraction and nerve conduction. It also plays a role in maintaining the proper functioning of the heart.
Potassium
Potassium is essential for regulating fluid balance within the body.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that is involved in many bodily functions. It is needed for wound healing, immune system function, and metabolism.
Antibiotics
Seaweed has been shown to protect against cancer and cardiovascular diseases. It is believed that seaweed helps prevent cancer by increasing antioxidant activity. Antioxidants are chemicals that protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress may lead to mutations in DNA, which can turn healthy cells into cancerous ones.
Seaweed is rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols and carotenoids. Polyphenols are compounds found in plants that act as antioxidants. Carotenoids are pigments produced by plants that give fruits and vegetables their color.
What are some examples of edible seaweeds with their nutritional value?
Kombu
Contains high amounts of protein, fiber, and minerals.
Nori
High in protein, low in fat, and rich in minerals.
Hijiki
Rich in protein, iron, and calcium.
Dulse
A good source of sodium and potassium.
Arame
Good source of fiber, iron, and calcium.
Umeboshi
High in vitamin C and calcium.
Is Consuming Seaweed safe?
Consuming seaweed is generally safe as long as you follow the recommended serving sizes. You should avoid consuming seaweeds if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney failure, or gallbladder disease.
Can children consume seaweed?
Yes! Children should be encouraged to eat seaweed as part of a healthy diet. Seaweed is high in vitamins A, B12, D, E, K, folic acid, and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
Can senior citizens consume seaweed?
Senior citizens should be encouraged to eat seaweed as part of a healthy diet.
How do you know if a product is made out of seaweed?
There are two ways to identify whether a product is made out of seaweed:
1) The label should say “Made with Seaweed” or “Contains Seaweed.”
2) If the product is sold in a package containing seaweed, it means that the product is made out of seaweed.
How can we consume seaweeds at home?
You can find many types of seaweeds in your local grocery store. There are different ways to prepare seaweeds depending on what kind of seaweed you choose. Here are some common ways to consume seaweeds:
Raw seaweeds: Raw seaweeds are usually eaten raw. They can be consumed in salads or sprinkled with overcooked vegetables.
Cooked seaweeds: Cooked seaweeds are usually served as side dishes. They can be prepared in soups, stews, stir-fries, casseroles, and other dishes.
Dried seaweeds: Dried seaweeds are usually used in cooking. They can be added to soups, stews, sauces, dips, and salad dressings.
What are the best foods to eat with seaweeds?
Seaweeds go well with seafood, meat, poultry, eggs, beans, tofu, nuts, seeds, and grains. Seaweeds are also good additions to salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, omelets, and desserts.
Conclusion
Seaweeds are best and are known for their abundant nutrient content. Do try these wonders of the plant kingdom! Consuming Seaweeds will be an excellent option for overweight people who have a deficiency of minerals in their bodies.