Seaweed: a rich source of nutrients

Among all the vegetables, seaweeds contain the highest amounts of mineral salts and trace elements. They are rich in iodine and iron (100 grams of seaweed have twice as much iron as 100 grams of lentils). They also contain cobalt, magnesium, calcium, sulfur, and potassium. With 100 grams of Hijiki seaweed, for example, we provide the body with 1400 mg of calcium, which makes it a great substitute for milk.
By consuming 1 gram daily of Kombu seaweed, the body extracts enough iodine to guarantee endocrine gland balance. Trace elements such as zinc are necessary for proper secretion and absorption of insulin, iron and cobalt, all responsible for preventing anemia. The silicon and calcium abundantly available in this food are absolutely necessary to strengthen bones, nails, and for restoring skin and hair.
Seaweeds are rich in chlorophyll. Those that contain higher percentages of chlorophyll are spirulina seaweed and Blue Klamath Algae. Chlorophyll is an important element that activates the body’s enzymes responsible for absorbing nutrients to convert into energy. Chlorophyll helps purify the blood and increase hemoglobin production. It also prevents blood vessel contractions, and increases muscle and nerve performance.
Seaweeds
- Contain vitamin B12. Nori and spriulina seaweed are the richest in this essential, water soluble vitamin.
- The are an unmatched source of vegetable proteins, providing all the essential amino-acids in proper proportion.
- They do not contain cholesterol, saturated fats, antibiotic residues, pesticides, nor synthesized hormones that are present in meat proteins.
- They have a high percentage of vitamin E.
- They contain provitamin A or beta-carotenes
- They contain linoleic acid and alpha linoleic acid
- They fight aging
- They protect the skin and mucous membranes from free radicals
- They contribute to the elimination of heavy metas like arsenic, lead, mercury, and even radioactive elements.
- They cleanse the entire body and restore it with vitamins and minerals
Seaweed diet to loose weight
Seaweeds produce a satiating effect and also help regulate thyroid gland and mucilage function (a type of fiber that stimulates good large intestine function). This allows for proper daily waste elimination which is a necessary requisite for weight loss. Eucheuma seaweed and spirulina seaweed are good for this as well.
You must keep in mind, however, that a diet based on salads, fruits and whole grains, along with regular physical exercise, are the true keys to reducing body fat.