However, eating too much seaweed can have potential risks and side effects.
Seaweed has many different flavors depending on how it’s prepared.
Common varieties are often described as salty,umami(earthy), fishy, or briny.
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Helps Control Blood Sugar with Diabetes
Research indicates seaweed may help withdiabetesby improving blood sugar regulation.
Multiple reviews also report that seaweed positively impacts blood sugar levels, especially in people withtype 2 diabetes.
The effect appears to happen soon after consumption.
However, the longer-term impact is unknown.
Improves Blood Pressure Regulation
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a significant risk factor for heart disease andstroke.
Research suggests seaweed may help lower blood pressure, possibly because of how the body processes sodium.
Both the medications and seaweed inhibit angiotensin-converting enzymea key compound involved in blood pressure control.
Manages BMI and Weight
Some research shows that seaweed may positively affect weight and waist circumference.
Consumption must be fairly highmore than 4 grams dailyand results are inconsistent across studies.
For example, one study found positive effects only occurred in males.
Seaweed is high in fiber, andhigh-fiber dietsare known to lower lipid levels.
Studies are mixed as to seaweeds actual effect on human lipid levels.
Supports Gut Health
Seaweed may support the digestive system in three ways:
6.
Alleviates Oxidative Stress
Many diseases are linked tooxidative stress, andantioxidantsin brown seaweed appear to help alleviate oxidative stress.
Boosts Immune Health
Seaweed contains antioxidants and prebiotics that are known to support a healthy immune system.
However, it’s unclear how well the body absorbs and uses these components.
Even a single tablespoon offers some nutritional benefits.
Iodine levels vary greatly by seaweed punch in.
Nori, the most common punch in, has 58 mcg per tablespoon, or 928 mcg per cup.
Fresh, Roasted, vs Dried Seaweed
you might eat fresh seaweed right out of the ocean.
Dried seaweed has been dehydrated but will contain more moisture than roasted seaweed.
This includes the variety called nori, which is the standard sushi seaweed.
Nori comes in thin, dry strips often wrapped around a sushi roll.
How Much Is Too Much Seaweed?
Iodine
Most people in the United States and other developed countries get enough iodine in their diets.
Iodine intake over 1,100 micrograms (mcg) is considered dangerous.
If you include seaweed in your diet, keep your total iodine consumption under 1,100 mcg.
Washing and cooking may not effectively remove them.
Heavy metals such as mercurycan impair thyroid function.
Your thyroid health may take a double hit from large amounts of seaweed.
One study showed healthy adults who ate large amounts of seaweed had elevated levels ofarsenic.
If you are concerned, speak with a healthcare provider before consuming it.
These products are not required to list iodine or heavy metal content.
When buying dried seaweed, be sure it’s in a sealed, air-tight container.
It shouldn’t be especially crumbly or look gray.
Properly packaged dry seaweed should last a long time.
Seaweed can be eaten raw, dried, or roasted.
While seaweed is nutrient-rich, too much may cause health risks due to the iodine and heavy metal content.
Speak to a healthcare provider if you’re concerned before consuming seaweed.
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