The Benefits Of Superfood Sea Moss

We’ve gone to the depths of the ocean with this one. Although named ‘sea moss’, this superfood is actually a red algae abundant with nutrients. Chances are if you’re Jamaican or Irish, you’ve already been filled in on this not-so-secret superfood as both have used sea moss medicinally since the 1800s. Whilst not as extensively researched, sea moss has been referred to as ‘nature’s multi-vitamin’, because people have actively felt its powerful benefits.

It was seen as a poor man’s food, as many Irish people used it as a way to get nutrients during the potato famine. In fact, these red algae are also known as Irish sea moss because of it's connection to the land. Its lack of flavor and thickening properties allowed it to be versatile and the perfect addition to stews, soups, and smoothies. Recently, it's been enjoying a revival as the food has become more synonymous with celebrities and deemed a superfood. Read below to find out the numerous benefits of sea moss which is allowing it to finally having its moment to shine:

Increases Energy

Perfect for when you’re on your period, sea moss is rich in iron. This enables you to feel less fatigued and full of energy when you include it in your diet, which enables you to live a richer life overall. Sea moss contains about 9 milligrams of iron per 100 grams, which is more than chicken. You can shush those vegan disbelievers who question your iron intake with a sprinkle of sea moss in your smoothie packed with wellness. If you have been diagnosed with anemia, this is a recommended source to replenish your iron.

A Nutrient Powerhouse

Sea moss contains high amounts of certain nutrients, including folate, vitamin K, iron, iodine, magnesium, and calcium. The potent levels of iodine allow your body to build thyroid, making it perfect for individuals with hypothyroidism. It is protein-rich, specifically in amino acid taurine, which helps the body burn fat and build muscle. Just having a higher intake of these nutrients will build up your strength and immunity against infections, making this superfood turn you into a super (healthy) human!

Aids Digestion

Sea moss is a mucilaginous food – and whilst that word sounds incomprehensible, this simply means it can help gut health. Sea moss has a prebiotic effect as it eliminates bad bacteria and benefits healthy fatty acids in the colon. Its gelatinous texture allows to soothe mucus membranes in the body, including in the digestive as well as the respiratory system.

Neuroprotective Effects

We all want to keep our marbles and our movement when we’re old and grey, and sea moss can help with just that! It’s already a benefit that will keep us lean and energetic, but to protect us from Parkinson’s is just the cherry on top! Some animal research has shown sea moss aids in the decreased accumulation of α-synulein and protects from dopaminergic neurodegeneration. This essentially means the brain tissue that’s destroyed in people with Parkinson’s that hampers motor function, recognition and induces tremors, is more protected.

Respiratory Health

Its powerful levels of potassium chloride enable it to dissolve phlegm and inflammation with ease. This allows you to swiftly fight off congestion, chesty coughs, and even bronchitis. Let’s be real, who wouldn’t want help fighting off a bad cough in 2020 so they don’t sound like the grim reaper in the almost packed train carriageway? Its miraculous anti-viral and anti-microbial properties will make it the first thing you reach for in the kitchen.