Health Benefits of Seaweed – A Bath Full of Bladderwrack Seaweed Could Be Just What the Doctor Prescribed

Kelp, a colorful macroalgae that grows in the ocean, is a food source for marine life and humans. Each type of kelp has a unique set of nutrients and can escalate your vitamin and mineral intake if eaten regularly.

Seaweed is widely consumed in Asia and is a staple ingredient in many Japanese, Korean and Chinese dishes. For example, nori is well-known as the seaweed used to wrap sushi rolls, while wakame or kelp is often found in comforting ramen noodle dishes. This seaweed imparts an instantly recognizable, savory flavor—known as Umami flavor – to dishes and can add a variety of vitamins and minerals to them.

Types of seaweed can be broadly classified according to their color:red, green and brown. About 145 species of seaweed are eaten all over the world. Seaweed is valued for its antioxidant properties that aid protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Many seaweeds contain phenolic and flavonoid compoundswhich are important antioxidantsand omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, fiber, vitamins A, C and E – and minerals such as copper, zinc and iodine.

Seaweed with the highest content Nutritional value include those often referred to as “fucus”. Vesicular, serrated and spiral fucus often have noticeably higher antioxidant content than many other seaweeds. However, the nutrient content varies depends on type of seaweed, place of collection and time of year it is collected.

In addition to being nutritious, seaweed has the potential to be a source of valuable antimicrobial agents. Studies from Queen’s University Belfast have shown that seaweed species can combat the development of harmful microorganisms in animals, some of which become resistant to antibiotics.

Although eating seaweed has many benefits, there are some things you should avoid Be careful for. Due to the high iodine content of many species of seaweed, their consumption may escalate thyroid diseases or disturb the functioning of the thyroid gland Medicines.

Some reports also suggest that depending on the habitat, seaweed species may aggregate heavy metals such as cadmium, which has been reported to cause liver and kidneys toxicity and mercury, known neurotoxin.

It is therefore crucial to check different countries. maximum levels of contamination (MCL) for heavy metal concentration in algae products and only buy those that have been tested and found to be sheltered for consumption.

Bathing in seaweed

However, diet is not the only way to experience the beneficial properties of algae.

In recent years there has been an escalate seaweed bathwhich is considered beneficial for health. Bathtub full fucus may not seem like much, but this strap-like, olive-colored algae, found along the coasts of the North Sea, Atlantic Ocean, and Pacific Ocean, has been shown to be beneficial as a topical treatment various skin problems from skin aging to wound healing.

The tradition of bathing in seaweed, practiced since hundreds of yearswas originally recommended for people suffering from arthritis to relieve pain, stiffness and inflammation of joints. Nowadays it is also recommended for athletes after intense exercise practice because the high magnesium content in algae is believed to relieve muscle pain.

Whether it’s swimming, sailing, or even building sandcastles, the ocean has a positive impact on our physical and mental well-being. Curious about how mighty coastal connections aid protect the marine environment, scientists are diving to explore the power of blue health.

This article is part of the Vitamin Sea series, in which we explore how our interaction with the ocean can improve its quality.

Many companies specializing in collecting seaweed for bathing purposes have this goal in a sustainable wayThis means that the kelp is cut from the reef at low tide and is never pulled from the roots to ensure re-growth. As demand increases, there is Growing awareness With challenges around cultivation and harvesting methods, technical knowledge and environmental protection hit expanding production.

The moisturizing effect of seaweed is also valued by the cosmetics industry as today consumers attach more importance to natural and environmentally amiable care ingredients.

Featuring seaweed extracts such as seaweed and sea spaghetti, our seaweed-based skincare lines against photoagingmoisturizing and protective, nourishing and filling the skin effects. But check the label: the closer to the beginning of the ingredients list, the greater the amount of seaweed in the product.

To improve your health, seaweed can be easily registered to your lifestyle. Add to your diet, in moderation, by exploring seaweed recipes and sprinkling dried, ground seaweed blends with dulse, wakame, sea spaghetti and wrecks into smoothies, salads and even pizza.

You can also buy hand-picked seaweed products and add them to your bath, so you can enjoy the benefits of soaking in seaweed at home – no matter how far from the sea you live.