Is Sea Moss Good For You? RDs Are Undermining Health Benefits
In the vast ocean of health habits, you’ve probably come across the aquatic gem known as seaweed. This aquatic miracle, although technically algae, is also considered the latest and greatest food. In fact, according to some, this type of red seaweed is a valuable asset when it comes to health benefits. But is seaweed really as good for you as people say?
Sea moss fans swear it can help with everything from immunity to glowing skin. It is even rumored to help with heart and gut health. But is there any truth to these alleged benefits? To get to the bottom of these claims, we turned to the experts. First, registered dietitians (myself included) review whether or not seaweed is actually good for you. Also, learn more about the (real) benefits of seaweed, possible side effects, and how to incorporate seaweed into your health routine.
Experts Featured in This Article:
Jen Scheinman, MS, RDN, CDN, is a registered dietitian nutritionist and creator of Next Jen Health.
Mascha Davis, MPH, RDN, is a registered dietitian and author of “Eat Your Vitamins.”
Is Sea Moss Good For You?
Seaweed, also known as Irish moss or red seaweed, is a type of red algae that grows along the rocky shores of the Atlantic coast of Europe and North America. “Although it’s becoming more popular in the health world now, it’s actually eaten as part of a traditional diet, especially in coastal areas like the Caribbean, Ireland and parts of Asia,” says Jen Scheinman. , MS, RDN, CDN.
Known for its many nutrients, seaweed is a great source of iodine, potassium, calcium, and vitamins A, D, E, and K. It is often used in foods for its gelling properties, which means it will often in the form of a gel. Scheinman explains that “although there aren’t many studies done on seaweed, it is said to have benefits from thyroid health to gut health.”
“Four tablespoons of Irish sea moss provide 10 percent of the daily value (DV) for iron, 7 percent of the DV for magnesium, and 4 percent of the daily value,” says Mascha Davis. percent of the DV for zinc, all of which provide only 10 calories. Seaweed supplements are usually sold in gel, gummy, or tablet form.
Health Benefits of Sea Moss
Here’s a list of what seaweed can do for you, according to experts. As a note, be sure to consult a doctor before starting any new medication or supplement, especially since supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Improved Thyroid Function: Another wonderful benefit of seaweed is that it is rich in iodine, which is essential for proper thyroid function. This essential nutrient aids in the production of thyroid hormones, which are responsible for regulating metabolism, energy production and tissue repair. That said, “if you’re considering using seaweed and you have thyroid disease, you’ll definitely want to check with your health care provider, as too much iodine can have a negative effect on the thyroid. ,” Scheinman warns.
- Strong Protection: Seaweed is known for its ability to support a healthy immune system. Because seaweed is full of antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamin C, it can help boost the body’s defenses against common diseases and infections.
- Fair Skin: Seaweed is celebrated for its ability to improve skin health, due to its high sulfur content. Called “natural collagen,” sulfur is often treated as a therapeutic agent in various dermatologic diseases. It can strengthen and smooth skin, promote faster healing of cuts and wounds, and provide relief for conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
- Gut Health: “Sea moss is a good source of fiber and prebiotics (nutrients that support the gut microbiome), so it can have a beneficial effect on gut health,” Scheinman says. Seaweeds also support digestive health due to their high mucilage content. This gel-like product can support gut health by relieving discomfort and helping to move food through the digestive tract.
- Reduce Inflammation: The high antioxidant content of seaweed means it can help lower inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic disease. This includes conditions like heart disease, some types of cancer, and metabolic conditions like type 2 diabetes, Scheinman says.
Side Effects of Sea Moss
Although seaweed is often celebrated for its health benefits, it’s important to be aware of its side effects, too. Excessive consumption can lead to excess iodine, which can damage thyroid function. Additionally, since seaweed thins the blood, those taking anticoagulant medications should be cautious and consult a doctor before using seaweed. In that case, it is always advisable to consult a health care provider before including seaweed, or any new supplement, in your diet.
It’s also not helpful: “Seaweed may pose a risk of heavy metal ingestion as oceans tend to absorb and accumulate heavy metals,” Davis tells PS. In addition, “eating large amounts of seaweed can cause stomach upset, diarrhea and/or constipation,” Scheinman says.
How to include Sea Moss in your diet
Once you get the go-ahead from your doctor, adding seaweed to your diet is easy (with a little knowledge). Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Smoothies: Add seaweed gel to your favorite smoothie recipe for a nutrient boost.
- Teas and alcoholic beverages: Add a spoonful of seaweed gel to hot tea or smoothies.
- Soup and Stew: Mix seaweed gel into broths or stews to thicken and add minerals.
- Baked Goods: Use seaweed as a healthy addition to bread, cookies or muffins.
- Sauces and Dressings: Mix seaweed into sauces, dressings, or dips for added flavor and nutrients.
- Breakfast: Replace bowls of oatmeal or yogurt with a spoonful of seaweed gel.
- Desserts: Add seaweed gel to desserts like puddings or vegan jellies for a healthy twist.
You can also take seaweed in capsule form and skip the recipes. But like any supplement, it’s best to consult a doctor before changing your diet and lifestyle.
– Additional reporting by Chandler Plante
Chandler Plante is the assistant editor of PS Health and Fitness. She has more than four years of journalism experience, having previously worked as an editorial assistant at People magazine and contributed to Ladygunn, Millie, and Bustle Digital Group. In her spare time, she enjoys finding new ways to sew her 18 (!) different eye patches, and making videos about chronic illness, beauty and disability.
Lauren Manaker is an award-winning registered dietitian and freelance writer who is passionate about providing evidence-based nutrition information in a fun and engaging way.
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