Since Kim Kardashian mentioned adding sea moss in her smoothies in February 2020, the ingredient has been dubbed a “superfood.” However, this amazing ingredient was in use way before the Kardashians made it Instagram-famous. It may have only achieved mainstream fame in 2020 but has been used and studied for years because of its many amazing health benefits. In this article, we will break down what sea moss is, where it comes from, and why it’s something that can completely transform your health.
What is Sea Moss?
Sea moss (Chondrus crispus) is a type of edible sea algae that has taken the world by storm. This spiny plant is similar to other edible seaweeds and grows in tidepools and coastal areas in Europe (where it’s often known as Irish Moss), North America, and the Caribbean.
Despite it being called moss, sea moss isn’t always green. This algae can be found in various colors, including red, yellow, gold, brown, and more. Sea moss has been used for many years for its carrageenan – this gelatinous substance is used in everything, from cosmetics and baked goods to stews and soups. In addition to being used as a thickening agent, it can be consumed raw, in the form of powder, or as sea moss capsules and supplements.
9 Sea Moss Health Benefits You Should Take Advantage Of
Upon first look, you may think that sea moss isn’t that impressive an ingredient. However, this isn’t just any type of algae or seaweed. It has been studied extensively, and many studies support the benefits of sea moss complex.
1. It’s Highly Nutritious
It’s fine to be skeptical of pop culture calling any new ingredient a superfood. However, sea moss is actually beneficial and highly nutritious. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) FoodData Central, sea moss is chock-full of vitamins and minerals.
You can find the following in as little as 10 g (2 tablespoons) of sea moss:
- Calcium: 7.2 mg
- Potassium: 6.3 mg
- Iron: 0.89 mg
- Zinc: 0.195 mg
- Magnesium: 14.4 mg
- Manganese: 0.037 mg
- Phosphorus: 15.7mg
- Copper: 0.015 mg
2. Good for Thyroid Health
For your thyroid to function normally, it needs certain minerals. One of the most vital minerals needed for producing important hormones is iodine. Foods and diets with sufficient iodine are essential for maintaining good thyroid health. Fortunately, sea moss does exactly this. A single gram of sea moss contains 47 mg of iodine, making it an excellent source of iodine.
3. Reduction in Risk Factors for Cancer
One of the main compounds of interest in sea moss is fucoxanthin. Research has shown this compound to be linked to a reduced likelihood of colorectal cancer.
4. Aiding Weight Loss
Another important sea moss benefit is that it may help you with weight loss. One study showed the effectiveness of a compound called fucoxanthin in breaking down and metabolizing fat, while another showed a reduction in body fat mass and body weight for adults who consumed red seaweed extract. While some of these have yet to be replicated and a lot of the research focuses on different compounds within sea moss, these are promising results.
5. Antioxidant Properties
Several studies have shown how rich edible seaweed and sea moss are in iodine. 47 mg of a single gram of sea moss consists of iodine, a mineral that acts as an antioxidant. The oligosaccharides found in red seaweed and sea moss also have antioxidant properties, which may help prevent oxidative damage.
6. Aiding Gut Health
Gut health is a critical component of overall health. We’ve all heard about the importance of prebiotics and probiotics for a healthy microbiome. Sea moss is an excellent example of an ingredient that can be a gamechanger for your gut health. It contains ingredients like oligosaccharides and plenty of dietary fiber, which feed healthy gut bacteria and maintain the gut microbiome.
7. Improved Immune System
Gut health and the immune system are linked, and a healthy microbiome can do wonders for improving your immune system. The fiber in sea moss and its effect on your gut is a great indication of how much it can impact your immune system. Furthermore, animal studies on sea moss have shown an increase in immunity and antibodies.
8. Protection From Parkinson’s Disease
One of the most noteworthy sea moss benefits we have to mention is the possibility of neuroprotective effects. Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease resulting in stiffness, slow movement, and uncontrollable tremors. A promising animal research study has shown how effective sea moss can be in protecting against the markers of Parkinson’s disease and slowing down its progression.
9. Helping With Fatigue
Do you suffer from fatigue and exhaustion? Sea moss is a superfood that may help resolve this issue. Some promising research has shown that sea moss supplements helped with fatigue, pain, and exhaustion.
Get Your Sea Moss Complex Intake With Yemaya Organic Products
These are only some of the many sea moss benefits you can expect when introducing this incredible ingredient into your diet. Doing so is extremely easy because you need only a little of sea moss to possibly see marked differences.
However, it’s important to get your sea moss from the right source. The quality of the ingredient and the nutrients within it vary depending on the temperature, region, and even water quality. For example, if there are heavy metals in the area, the algae may also become contaminated. Because of this, it’s essential to buy your sea moss from reputable sources like Yemaya Organic.
Whether you prefer supplements and sea moss capsules or making your own sea moss gel, we’ve got you covered. Buy directly from us or through Amazon. Since all our products are organic, non-GMO, and vegan-friendly, they’re suitable for you no matter your needs. Start your health journey today by checking out our sea moss complex here.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Specifically, concerning the use and consumption of sea moss gel, while it is a natural product and has been used traditionally in various cultures, its effects can vary among individuals.
It's important to remember that everyone's health and nutritional needs are different. Therefore, before incorporating sea moss gel or any other new food or supplement into your diet, it is strongly advised that you consult with your healthcare provider.