Can you eat sea moss without blending it?
In this brief article, we will answer the question, “Can you eat sea moss without blending it?” We will also look at the benefits and downsides of eating sea moss.
Can you eat sea moss without blending it?
Sure, you can sea moss on its own without blending it. Sea moss is a type of red algae which goes by other names as seaweed or Irish moss and scientifically as Chondrus crispus. It is usually harvested for making an extract ingredient called carrageenan which is used as a thickener and emulsifier in milk products such as ice creams.
Sea moss can be eaten without blending by soaking it for around 12 to 24 hours and preparing a sea moss gel. You can as well just throw in the soaked sea moss in a smoothie about 4 to 8 rams which is a tablespoon or two and drink your smoothie.
What is the nutritional value of sea moss?
A typical serving of 20 grams which is equivalent to about 4 teaspoons has nutritional composition as below:
- Calories: 10
- Protein: 0.5 grams
- Total fat: 0 grams
- Total carbs: 3 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Total sugar: 0 grams
- Calcium: 1% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Iron: 10% of the DV
- Magnesium: 7% of the DV
- Phosphorus: 2% of the DV
- Zinc: 4% of the DV
- Copper: 3% of the DV
What are the health benefits of sea moss?
It is healthy for the heart
Sea moss is widely regarded as a superfood because of the tons of nutrients and essential vitamins it packs. It is packed with high content fiber which is an essential nutrient for digestion as it assists with bowel movement.
It can also help in regulating blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol levels as well as reduce the risk of getting diabetes and heart related diseases such as stroke.
It is an excellent source of iodine
It also packs iodine which is an essential micronutrient in the support of brain development and most importantly ensures the proper functioning of thyroid. It does this by regulating the production of thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine.
The human body does not naturally produce iodine so you have to rely on diets such as sea moss to get sufficient amounts.
It can promote the loss of weight
Seaweed is rich in fiber which promotes satiety (the feeling of feeling full for longer) and hence prevents you from overeating. Research has shown that a specific compound known as fucoxanthin that is present in sea moss promotes metabolism in the body.
It supports good gut health
Sea moss is an excellent source of live bacteria and fiber which have been studied to promote good gut health. It does this by balancing out the good and bad bacteria in the gut and replenishes the good bacteria which might be flushed out by food borne diseases.
It can boost immunity
Research has shown that sea moss improves immune modulation and immune response from studying salmon. Sea moss also comes high in antioxidants and fiber which are crucial in the boosting of the body’s overall immunity.
It can help build muscles and assist in workout recovery
Sea moss contains an amino acid called taurine which assists in building of muscles and assists with athletic performance. Taurine also helps support nerve growth and can lower blood sugar levels. It also functions to calm the nervous system and control diabetes.
It may have anecdotal benefits for fertility
Although there is no conclusive scientific evidence to support this, sea moss has been used traditionally by some people for benefits of promoting fertility in both men and women.
What are the down sides of consuming sea moss?
Sea moss has very high and variable iodine content. Consumption of such levels of iodine can result in hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid. Thyroid is a vital organ as it produces hormones which help in the regulation of the body’s metabolic rate and thus controls the heart, muscle, digestive process, bone maintenance and the development of the brain.
Sea moss might also contain high levels of metals such as mercury and lead or other metal contaminants depending on where it is grown. So if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a low immune system, it is wise that you consult with a medical practitioner before consuming any sea moss.
Sea moss as well has an unpleasant smell and texture. It is usually very slimy and has a fishy smell, not good for people with a weak stomach who can end up throwing up after consumption. It has a taste which is similar to oysters and clams so if you are not quite a fan of seafood, sea moss is definitely not for you.
Conclusion
In this brief article, we have answered the question, “Can you eat sea moss without blending it?” We have looked at the benefits and downsides of eating sea moss.
