We recently started putting sea moss in some of our favorite recipes for an added boost of nutrition. We’ve been loving it so much that we just had to share!
Sea moss, which is often referred to as Irish Moss, is a red seaweed that’s usually found near the North Atlantic Coast. Boasting a strong nutritional profile, sea moss possess vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, proteins, lipids and amino acids in addition to many other powerful nutrients.
Benefits of Sea Moss
Although sea moss has been consumed for thousands of years, there isn’t a lot of research on how this superfood affects the human body. Despite this, based on what we do know about it and about seaweed in general, it’s easy to see why it’s been such a hot topic in the wellness world recently.
Here are some of the potential benefits:
May Promote Healthy Skin: Packed with nutrients like vitamin A, magnesium and omega-3s, sea moss is antimicrobial and an anti-inflammatory, all of which promote anti-aging and healthy skin.
Can Help Keep You Full Longer: Sea moss thickens when combined with liquid (it’s often used as a thickener for non-dairy milks) and becomes a soluble fiber that can help make you feel full longer which in turn can curb your appetite.
Potentially Aids with Digestion: As a type of mucilaginous food and prebiotic, sea moss can aid with digestion and allow for easier and regular bowel movements.
May Increase Immunity: Even though much more research is needed in regards to sea moss’ effect on immunity, it seems to inhibit compounds that are produced by bacteria, viruses and fungi thereby helping to strengthen the immune system.
Can Impact Your Neurological Health: Based on the non-human studies that have been conducted, sea moss is thought to help relieve oxidative stress which can have very positive neuroprotective impacts.
Potential Anti-Tumor Effects: Due to the presence of algal polysaccharides and antioxidants, sea moss may have anti-tumor effects although more research is needed in this area.
Even though raw sea moss is edible as is, you likely won’t find it at your local grocery store. Sea moss supplements are much more common and widely available at most health food stores. Whether you’re taking it as a powder, capsule, gel or raw, you can take it on its own or add it to smoothies, oatmeal, soups and sauces the way we like to do especially since it’s flavorless.
There aren’t many known side effects of sea moss but it is rich in iodine which is why it’s important not to take too much of it or it can cause potential thyroid issues. It should also not be consumed by someone with a pre-existing thyroid condition but like with any supplement, it’s important to do your research and talk to your health care practitioner beforehand.