Sea moss, or Irish moss, is a type of seaweed that people can add to food or take as a nutritional supplement. It's naturally rich in minerals and vitamins, and can benefit the immune system, thyroid function, and hair and skin health. Sea moss, in gel form or other forms, can be a relatively low-calorie means of adding more nutrients to the diet. Because sea moss contains alginate, it can promote intestinal health by binding to toxins and bad bacteria in the gut and preventing the body from absorbing them.
In addition, sea moss is a good source of fiber, which helps promote healthy intestinal bacteria and prevent constipation. Early studies suggest that sea moss may boost the immune system and even protect the body from contracting salmonella. The plant is also packed with antioxidants, which can break down free radicals that damage our cells. Plus, sea moss gel contains large amounts of potassium, an essential mineral that promotes muscle contraction and blood pressure control.
Sea moss can help you achieve that goal and keep a regular amount of iodine in your system. Instead of turning to sea moss to boost their nutrition, a few sushi rolls containing seaweed can help provide comparable amounts of vitamin B and zinc. Research found that people who received certain types of sea moss reduced levels of fatigue, exhaustion and pain. Research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food indicates that sea moss contains approximately 47 mg of iodine per gram. However, current research on sea moss has limitations, and scientists still need more evidence to support any health claims. In a study conducted with worms, sea moss extract was shown to reduce the accumulation of α-synuclein and reduce stiffness and slowness of movement.
Just ten grams of sea moss contain 7.2 milligrams of calcium, about half the percentage found in 1% fat milk. The individual nutrients found in sea moss, such as B vitamins and zinc, indicate that it could potentially help strengthen your immune system. You'll know that your sea moss is ready to use when it has doubled in size and becomes white and gelatinous. More research is needed to determine if sea moss could help prevent or treat salmonella in humans. Raw sea moss can also taste earthy, ocean-like, similar to that of an oyster or a clam, which can be unpleasant for some. Research published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found higher levels of immune antibodies in rats that had eaten sea moss.
Sea moss contains high levels of iodine, which can damage the thyroid if consumed in large quantities. Once ready, add the sea moss and some water to a blender and blend until it becomes a thick colored liquid honey.
