POTENTIAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF KELP AND IRISH SEA MOSS
Kelp and Irish Sea Moss may provide a plethora of health benefits due to the mineral-rich nature of marine plants. As they grow, Kelp and Irish Sea Moss become enriched with minerals gathered from seawater, making them both nutrient-dense foods. Some researchers estimate that Kelp may have 10 times the mineral content of terrestrial plants.
Due to the high mineral content of these plants, it’s best to consult with a medical professional for dosage recommendations before using them as a supplement. Some vitamins and minerals can become toxic in high amounts, so awareness of your intake is essential.
The resource is managed by a dedicated team of data collectors who keep detailed records of harvest amounts. Using harvest limits pre-determined by scientists, the abundance of supply is maintained. These reports are given to governmental partners annually to ensure marine resources remain available for future generations.
Iodine in Irish Sea Moss and Kelp
Iodine is a mineral in both Kelp and Irish Sea Moss. Iodine is a trace mineral that is important for healthy thyroid function. Since humans do not produce iodine, it is essential to maintain adequate amounts from their diets. Iodine deficiencies may present symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Weight Gain
- Dry Skin
- Thyroid growth or swelling
While iodine is one of the common components Irish Sea Moss and Kelp share, they both offer distinct vitamins and minerals that can help support your body’s systems.
Other Potential Health Benefits of Kelp
As scientists dig into the health benefits of Kelp, they are finding out just how versatile this sea green is as a nutrient-dense food. One review stated that Kelp may "possess antimicrobial, antiviral, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anticarcinogenic, immunomodulatory, hypolipidemic, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant therapeutic properties."
To achieve some of these properties, Kelp relies on a bevy of minerals, like:
- Calcium - While it’s known for helping build and maintain strong bones, calcium is also important in muscle health, proper hormone release and nerve relays.
- Folate - Also known as vitamin B9, folate is key to red blood cell formation and function. This mineral is especially important during pregnancy, as it can help prevent brain and spine congenital disabilities.
- Magnesium - This nutrient assists with various body functions, such as protein synthesis and blood pressure regulation. It can also help transport other essential minerals through the cell membranes in your body.
- Vitamin K - This nutrient assists with various body functions, such as protein synthesis and blood pressure regulation. It can also help transport other essential minerals through the cell membranes in your body.
- Protein - Kelp is one of the most protein-rich greens you can eat. You can get five grams of protein in a one-ounce serving of dried Kelp. This outshines other soil-based greens in the protein department, like spinach and kale.
Other Potential Irish Sea Moss Health Benefits
While Irish Sea Moss has not been studied as extensively as Kelp, scientists have identified a few crucial vitamins and minerals in this seaweed. A few of the nutrients you can find in Irish Moss include:
- Vitamin B2 - Also known as riboflavin, this compound is responsible for helping aid in the growth of cells, energy production and the breakdown of fats.
- Zinc - This mineral helps your body accomplish several tasks, including cell division, immune function and wound healing.
- Potassium - This nutrient is critical to cell and nerve activity. It maintains normal levels of fluid inside of our bodies’ cells.
Now that we’ve covered a few ways that Kelp and Irish Moss may benefit the body, let’s look at some functional and tasty ways you can add it to your everyday life.
