6 reasons to include seaweed in your diet

: Health

For residents of Southeast Asian countries, a variety of seaweed is an indispensable component of the daily diet. Algae are popular due not only to their high taste, but also to their healing properties, which we will discuss in this article.

6 reasons to include seaweed in your diet — shutterstock.com

Residents of other countries, as a rule, are not very familiar with products of this kind, which is sad: seaweed is so useful that they should be eaten as often as possible. In this article, we will take a closer look at their amazing properties.

1. Improved bowel function

Red (nori) and brown (kelp and wakame) algae contain a huge amount of fucoxanthin. This pigment, getting into the gastrointestinal tract, contributes to the accelerated removal of fats from it. In addition, most algae contain alginate, which protects the mucous membrane of the intestines and stomach from damage, preventing the development of gastritis and peptic ulcer.

Algae of all kinds are rich in fiber, necessary for the proper functioning of the intestines.

2. Strengthening immunity

Daily use of algae heals the intestines, contributes to the creation of conditions for increased reproduction of beneficial microflora. This has a positive effect on the state of the immune system. In addition, marine plants contain substances that activate the production of leukocytes that perform a protective function in the body.

3. Normalization of blood pressure

Seaweeds are rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The regular inclusion of these plants in the diet improves blood composition, reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular pathologies, and normalizes blood pressure. Not without reason, in countries whose population constantly eats algae, the percentage of diseases such as stroke and myocardial infarction is lower than the world average.

4. Regulation of the level of female hormones

Frequent consumption of seaweed has been proven to help normalize blood estrogen levels. Taking into account the fact that an excess of this hormone increases the risk of developing malignant neoplasms of the breast and ovaries, the inclusion in the diet, in particular, kelp and nori, is desirable for every woman. Particular attention should be paid to algae as you approach menopause.

5. Maintain Thyroid Health

All seaweeds are rich in iodine, which is required for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Violation of the work of this organ leads to such troubles as obesity, heart rhythm disorders, problems with the reproductive system. Lack of iodine in the body adversely affects the physical and mental development of children.

The population of most developed countries eat table salt enriched with iodine. However, when this trace element is obtained from seaweed, the body absorbs it more efficiently.

6. Eliminate toxins from the body

Red and brown algae contain fucoidan, which has the ability to remove toxins from the body (including carcinogenic ones). Chlorella (green algae) and spirulina (blue-green algae) are extremely rich in chlorophyll, which cleanses the blood of harmful decay products, lowers cholesterol levels.

The positive qualities of seaweed are extremely diverse. For example, spirulina contains many valuable amino acids, the consumption of which contributes to muscle building, and this makes it very popular in sports nutrition.

The amount of iron and protein in red algae is such that the latter may well “compete” with meat, and in the countries of the East they are often consumed by people who have decided to give up animal food.

Nori algae is widely used not only in the manufacture of sushi and rolls, but also in cosmetics as a component of masks that perfectly tighten and refresh the skin.

The use of at least 30 grams of algae at least three times a week helps to significantly improve well-being, tones up, and increases efficiency.

An absolute contraindication to eating seaweed is allergic reactions to seafood and iodine intolerance. Caution should be exercised by pregnant women and nursing mothers: the active trace element compounds that these products are rich in can overcome the placental barrier and penetrate into breast milk, which can affect the health of babies. Seaweed should not be given to children under three years of age. People with kidney disease, endocrine problems, and certain types of skin conditions should consult their doctor before including these foods in their diet.

One caveat is important: algae quickly absorb and accumulate various toxins, including salts of heavy metals contained in sea water. Therefore, they should be purchased only at trusted outlets that guarantee a preliminary safety check and high quality of the goods.

Source: neboleem.net