Hiziki seaweed: benefits and properties

Although the algae are certainly foods characteristic of Japanese cuisine (we must mention this time the popular sushi or sashimi as two of the best known products in this regard), it is true that with the rise of Japanese restaurants and buffets in our country, these "seafood products" has become a novelty in our diet.

The truth is that as we already knew in our note dedicated to the properties of algae, are ideal foods within a healthy and balanced diet, thanks to its high content of essential nutrients, such as vitamins (provitamin A and vitamin E), minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium, iodine, zinc, selenium, copper and cobalt), proteins and carbohydrates.

But depending on the variety of algae that we consume obviously their benefits and nutritional properties vary. In this sense, in addition to algae as common as kombu, nori, spirulina Y cochayuyo Today we want to talk about a lesser-known algae: hiziki.

Benefits of the hiziki seaweed

The Hiziki seaweed It is a variety of alga less known in our country, but highly consumed in countries such as Japan or China. It grows in the seas of Asia, on rocky soils, and may even form bushes that reach one meter in height.

From a nutritional point of view, this variety of algae is extremely rich in essential nutrients for our body, and indispensable within a healthy and balanced diet:

  • Proteins
  • Minerals: iron, phosphorus, iodine and potassium.
  • Vitamins: vitamins of group B.
  • Trace elements
  • Antioxidants: beta-carotene.

It is a food with a great remineralizing power, which is why its consumption is recommended in the infantile and juvenile diet (especially in the growing season), and also in other moments, such as in case of pregnancy, osteoporosis or periods of convalescence.

Precisely on this last benefit, we must also emphasize that the algae hiziki It provides interesting benefits in case of anemia, thanks to its high iron content.

Because of its iron content it is a useful food in case of hypothyroidism (however, its consumption is not recommended in case you are already taking thyroid medication). This article is published for informational purposes only. You can not and should not replace the consultation with a Nutritionist. We advise you to consult your trusted Nutritionist.

The Nutritional Benefits of Seaweed, The Ocean's Superfood (March 2024)