Kelp is probably most well-known for being a major component of sushi dishes internationally. A type of seaweed that grows in shallow waters in every corner of the world’s seas, it has been used medicinally for hundreds of years as it has some very useful properties. As it’s been gaining popularity, there has been a corresponding steady increase in the number of products and supplements made available. So should you be eating it? Yes you should, and find out why with our Top 5 Health Benefits of Kelp!
1. High in vitamins
Packed with vitamins this natural source of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and E, kelp can help make sure you’re feeling your best. It even contains 10 times as much calcium as milk! All of these vitamins and minerals are necessary for a number of your daily key bodily functions and processes.
2. Helps with weight loss
Studies have shown that kelp has obesity-fighting properties. The hero here is a carotenoid called fucoxanthin, which is present. Combined with a healthy diet, kelp, both in its natural state or powdered, can help support your weight loss goals.
3. Good for your bones
Containing an impressive amount of minerals related to bone health such as calcium, kelp can play a significant role in ensuring your good overall bone health. A regular supply of the minerals it supplies is especially vital to help prevent the onset of bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis.
4. Contains amino acids
Amino acids are of course well known for being the building blocks of protein. Kelp contains 16 amino acids which helps bolster the amount of protein in your body which is used for growth, repair and other nervous system optimising functions.
5. Contains iodine
Kelp contains a great deal of iodine, needed for the synthesis of your thyroid hormones so, it’s useful for effective thyroid function. Your thyroid also helps to regulate your metabolism. In its powdered form kelp has been used to treat hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and those with compromised physical coordination as well as the intellectually challenged. Problems with the thyroid including iodine deficiency can lead to weight gain. It is worth noting however that in large quantities, iodine can be dangerous so make sure you do not eat excessive amounts of it.
Knowing all this now, you should not restrict kelp to sushi dishes only. Experiment with it by trying for example the recipe in the video above for a raw kelp noodle salad, perfect for those of you on raw or vegan diets. Or try the supplements if you want an even quicker way to experience its benefits. Tried kelp, what did you notice? Tell us about it below, join in the conversation on Facebook and follow us on Twitter! Looking for other healthy foods? We’ve got you covered! Our other Top 5’s are there to help you get and KEEP your Fit ON.
