Seaweed, health and benefits of the sea

Arrivals directly from Japan, at least in its culinary form, this is the country with the highest consumption of algae per inhabitant, fact by which, possibly, all those algae that we usually eat in our country maintain, therefore, its original Japanese name.

In fact, it is likely that if we ask you about a well-known dish or Japanese recipe that stands out precisely because it is one of the most popular in this country (at least in the West), it is quite possible that the sushi be one of the first that comes to mind. And, among them, the variety known as maki, which is the popular roll of rice rolled with nori seaweed

What are algae?

Algae, as you well know, come to be plants of fresh and salt water, which count - yes - with the same cycles as terrestrial plants. However, they have the particular difference that they grow, reproduce and die without, in these processor, processes or seeding or irrigation.

Basically they consist of aquatic organisms ranging from unicellular microscopic beings to multicellular organisms, which tend to form large colonies (besides being tremendously showy).

Did you know that seaweed is essential for life? In fact, carry out one of the greatest contributions of oxygen to the planet, estimating that around 50% of global photosynthesis participate.

And did you know that, today, it is estimated that there are around 27,000 species in the world? Of these, only a few are intended for human consumption, highlighting among them popular options such as the mentioned nori seaweed, wakame, kombu and agar-agar.

Nutritional values ​​of algae

As we indicated at the beginning of this note, algae contribute to our diet vitamins, minerals, proteins and carbohydrates of great quality.

Among them, for example, we highlight the most important in the following summary-list:

  • Vitamins:The vast majority of algae contribute a lot Vitamin E, turning them into clear agents against aging. In addition, they also possess provitamin A (a precursor to the Vitamin A), as well as beta-carotene, prominent protectors of sight and skeletal development.
    In addition, they contribute vitamin C Y of group B.
  • Minerals:Among the minerals that algae provide, among the most outstanding we find the calcium, magnesium, potassium, iodine, zinc, selenium, cobalt and copper.
  • Proteins:The most outstanding feature of the proteins found in algae is that, since these plants are easily absorbed, they absorb the absorption of them.
    They are less toxic than animal proteins, and provide essential amino acids.
  • Carbohydrates:Thanks to mannitol, the algae are very satiating, helping to stimulate liver function, not increasing blood glucose.
    We also find mucilages, which tend to attenuate irritations, and alginic acid, which is able to satiate and upholster the gastric mucosa.

Most important benefits of algae

After knowing what is the nutritional value at a certainly general level of algae, we will know below one of the most interesting issues of the same.

And that it would not be other than Benefits Y properties that they offer to our Health.

The algae has fucoidin, a principle that has been shown to slow the carcinogenic action, helping to reduce some tumors, especially breast and colon.

According to various studies, they help improve the joint, since, it is believed, they have an active anticoagulant that cleanses the blood.

They also have a great antibiotic effect, so they fight infections and, also, act selectively in the intestinal flora.

They stimulate the pancreas and the spleen, purifying the lymphatic system and eliminating toxins and waste residues, purifying our body.

Properties of the most consumed algae

  • Kombu: Kombu seaweed has a large amount of minerals, among which iodine stands out, being the algae richer in this type of mineral and proteins. It helps in the elimination of toxins, activate circulation and control hypertension (high blood pressure).
  • Nori: Contains vitamins B12 and A, proteins, in addition to proteins and potassium, iron and calcium. It is able to prevent both vision and skin problems, facilitates digestion and, in addition, the elimination of accumulations of fat. It is one of the most used in Japanese cuisine.
  • Wakame: It also has a large number of minerals (especially calcium), proteins and vitamins of group B and C. Favors the growth of both hair and nails, and is good against anxiety, stress, fatigue and depression.
  • Spirulina: Contains amino acids, essential fatty acids, proteins and vitamins E, A and B12. It is able to control the appetite, and is positive in mental and physical activity.
  • Agar-agar: It has minerals such as calcium or selenium, and also carbohydrates. It regulates intestinal transit, prevents constipation and protects the gastric mucosa.
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. ThemesFoods

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