Sea moss is the newest “superfood” that influencers are raving about. They claim that sea moss products – often in gel form – have many health advantages. These include supporting brain and immune function or protecting against viruses and other microbes.
But do these health claims overlap? Let’s have a look.
What is sea moss?
Sea moss is made out of a kind of seaweed – particularly red algae – that grows in various places around the globe. There are three major species utilized in sea moss products:
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(often known as Irish moss or carrageenan moss)
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(seamoss or seabird nest)
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(Irish moss or ogonori).
Some products also contain brown algae (commonly often known as bladderwrack, black wrack, rockweed, sea grape, bladderwrack, sea oak, cutweed, dye wrack, red wrack or wrack).
Most sea moss products are sold in gel form, which may be added to recipes, utilized in smoothies, frozen in ice cubes, or consumed by itself. The products are also available in the shape of capsules or you may buy them “raw” and use them to organize your individual gels at home.
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What is the evidence?
Sea moss products have many potential health advantages, from supporting immunity, to promoting skin health and improving mood and focus, and way more.
But is there any evidence to support these claims?
Recent studies have reviewed the biological properties of the major sea moss species (, i).
They suggest that these species may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic and probiotic properties.
However, the overwhelming majority of research related to , and – like all research on – comes from studies conducted in test tubes or using cell and animal models. We shouldn’t assume that the observed health effects will probably be the identical in humans.
In cell and animal studies, researchers typically administer algae within the laboratory and use specific extracts wealthy in bioactive compounds, fairly than commercially available sea moss products.
They also use very different – often relatively larger – amounts in comparison with what someone would typically eat when eating sea moss products.
This implies that existing research cannot tell us in regards to the processes that occur within the human body when eating and digesting sea moss.
Sea moss may have similar effects on humans. However, to this point there could be very little evidence that individuals who eat sea moss will experience any of the claimed health advantages.
Nutritional value
Eating sea moss doesn’t replace the necessity to eat a balanced eating regimen that features a wide range of fruit and veggies.
and, like many seaweeds, they’re a wealthy source of nutrients corresponding to fatty acids, amino acids, vitamin C and minerals. These nutrients are also more likely to be present in sea moss, although some could also be lost during preparation of the product (for instance, soaking may reduce vitamin C content), and people who remain could also be present in relatively small amounts.
There are claims that sea moss could also be harmful to people affected by thyroid problems. This refers back to the relationship between thyroid function and iodine. The algae used to supply sea moss are a major source of iodine, and excessive iodine intake may contribute to thyroid problems, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions. That’s why these products often contain caveats related to iodine sensitivity or thyroid health.
Is it value it?
So you could be wondering if sea moss is value trying. Here are some things to contemplate before you choose whether to begin adding sea moss to your smoothies.
A 375ml jar costs around A$25-30 and can last for around seven to 10 days for those who follow the really helpful dose of two tablespoons a day. This makes it a comparatively expensive source of nutrients.
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There is sea moss often overrated since it comprises 92 different minerals. Although there could also be 92 minerals present, the quantity of minerals in algae will probably be differ depending on the place of cultivation and conditions.
The efficiency with which algae minerals may be absorbed and utilized by the body also varies between minerals. For example, sodium absorbs wellalthough only about 50% iodine is absorbed.
But sea moss does it has also been shown to contain lead, mercury and other heavy metals – in addition to radioactive elements (corresponding to radon) that may be harmful to humans. Seaweed is understood for its properties ability to build up minerals from their environment, whether helpful or harmful to human nutrition. Remember that more doesn’t at all times mean higher.
What else do I eat?
While you will not discover a full dietary breakdown on the jar, it is usually sensible to examine what other ingredients you could be consuming. Sea moss products may contain plenty of other ingredients corresponding to lime, monk fruit powder, spirulina and ginger, amongst others.
These ingredients vary by brand and product, so pay attention to your needs and at all times check.
Despite health claims, most sea moss products also contain disclaimers indicating that these products aren’t intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
If you have any concerns about your health, at all times seek the advice of a healthcare skilled for accurate and personalized medical advice.
