Lately, many people have become interested in sea moss and its benefits. Wellness trends are gaining more popularity on social media, with celebrities and influencers incorporating sea moss into their smoothies and skincare routines. However, it is still important to research the characteristics and benefits of this nutrient-packed plant. This blog will explain what sea moss is good for, how to use it, and what to consider before incorporating it into your routine.
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What Is Sea Moss?
Sea moss, sometimes referred to as Irish moss or red seaweed, provides a gluten-free, vegan source of minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin B2. It grows in tidepools and inlets all year round on the coasts of Europe, North America, and the British Isles.
Carrageenan is a jelly-like ingredient that can be extracted from sea moss, and it is often found in foods including ice cream, non-dairy milk, cottage cheese, jelly, toothpaste, shoe polish, baby formula, and leather curing. The tufted algae has thin fan-like fronds and comes in a variety of colors. While considered by some to have many health benefits, the majority of its purported health advantages have not yet been verified by science.
Nutritional Profile of Sea Moss
Recently, the health and wellness community has been sharing loads of information about the benefits and nutritional value of sea moss.
Vitamins and Minerals
Given that sea moss is a vegan and gluten-free source of several nutrients, it has recently been hailed as a superfood. Sea moss contains several nutrients, including vitamin B2, calcium, iodine, zinc, magnesium, sodium, and potassium.
Antioxidants and Bioactive Compounds
As a marine superfood, sea moss is renowned for having an abundant nutritional profile, which includes antioxidants and bioactive compounds, which are critical for preserving both physical and mental well-being. This adaptable seaweed is a mainstay of holistic wellbeing, frequently used to strengthen immune function, improve digestion, and promote skin health.
Benefits of Sea Moss
Supports Immune System
Incorporating sea moss into your health regimen is an easy way to support your immune system. This power-packed sea moss offers a number of vitamins and antioxidants, as well as iron, that contribute to the health of your immune system.
Improves Digestive Wellness
As a source of dietary fiber and potential prebiotic effects, sea moss may improve your digestive wellness. Both beneficial and harmful bacteria are abundant in your digestive tract. Keeping those bacteria in check is important for your wellness, as gut health is linked to general health. Algae, which includes sea moss, is rich in living bacteria and fiber and can aid in the restoration of beneficial bacteria in our digestive tracts.
Supports Thyroid Health
Considering sea moss is high in iodine, it may be beneficial for those who suffer from hypothyroidism, a disorder in which the thyroid hormones that control metabolism are not produced in sufficient amounts by the body. The process of metabolism converts the food you ingest into energy and controls bodily functions like breathing and heart rate. However, especially if you're currently taking medicine for your hypothyroidism, see your doctor before using sea moss to manage this condition.
Promotes Healthy Skin
Due to its shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, sea moss can be included in skincare and offers potential internal benefits for skin health. It is useful in the treatment of acne and other skin issues as a way to promote healthy skin.
Supports Overall Wellness
Sea moss has properties that support your overall wellness. These additional benefits include taurine, an amino acid that aids in muscle growth and recovery. Collagen is an essential protein found in sea moss that provides your skin, bones, ligaments, tendons, and the cartilage that coats your joints with connective tissues that provide structure and stability. Other benefits may also include a boost in energy and improvement in mental clarity.
How To Use Sea Moss
Sea moss powders and tablets are now being sold by several manufacturers. However, you may cook sea moss yourself to add to meals or use as a dietary supplement.
Culinary Uses
Sea moss can be prepared for use in recipes by washing it and soaking it in cold water for a day. It should double in size and become white and jelly-like. Next, use a blender to blend the sea moss with 1 cup of water until it’s smooth. You can add more water if necessary if the mixture is too thick. After that, refrigerate it for at least two hours to allow it to thicken. You will then be able to use it in smoothies, soups, stews, and baked goods. This sea moss mixture can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.
You can also make sea moss gel by blending 1/4 cup of sea moss powder with 2 cups of hot water. Once mixed, let it cool, and then store in the refrigerator. You can use this prepared sea moss gel in smoothies, soups, and other recipes. Or you can add it to beverages like teas and juices.
Topical Uses
Certain skincare products contain sea moss due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. People can also create DIY face masks and treatments using sea moss.
Sea Moss Supplements
There are different forms of sea moss supplements, and common types include powders, capsules, liquids, and gummies. Each of these is crafted to give you the most convenient choice that fits your needs. When buying sea moss supplements, it’s important to look for a quality brand with reputable sources and positive reviews. This way you know you can trust the company and its products.
Available in tinctures or gummies, Betterbrand offers a convenient way to incorporate sea moss into your routine.
BetterLungs Sea Moss Tincture features 92 distinct vitamins and minerals combined with a powerful combination of sea moss to promote hair, skin, nails, energy, digestion, and weight control while also filling in gaps in your micronutrients. Having your full dose is as easy as taking two full droppers (2 ml) a day.
By utilizing Irish sea moss's inherent advantages, BetterLungs Sea Moss Gummies are made to promote lung health. Each serving consists of two gummies, carefully designed to blend into your regular wellness regimen. It is advised to take two doses of sea moss gummies each day for the best results.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
While seaweeds like Irish moss have many health advantages, they can also have potential side effects you need to consider. One such drawback is that they can convert carrageenan into poligeenan, which can lead to intestinal inflammation. Carrageenan, on the other hand, is safe to use as a food additive and cannot be converted by the human body.
Consuming too much sea moss can lead to heavy metal ingestion, upset stomach, and thyroid issues. You also need to be aware of the potential for any allergic reactions to seaweed or iodine, as well as any possible interactions with certain medications you may already be taking. Based on the unknown relationship between iodine supplements and thyroid health, specialists warn against using sea moss iodine supplements.
Due to limited research on its effects on pregnant and nursing women, anyone using blood-thinning medications should avoid Irish moss since it may have blood-thinning characteristics. It is recommended that you consult a healthcare provider before you start incorporating sea moss into your wellness routine.
FAQ
What does sea moss taste like?
Sea moss has a generally mild taste. When ingested in gel form, it has a natural versatility and easily takes on the flavors of whatever it's mixed with.
Can I take sea moss every day?
Many people consume sea moss daily as part of their wellness routine. However, it is important to follow the supplement directions. Moderation is key, and you should consider dietary iodine intake from other sources.
What are the benefits of sea moss?
There are many benefits of sea moss. It supports your immune system, improves your digestive wellness, supports your thyroid health, promotes healthy skin, and supports your overall wellness.
