What Are the Health Benefits of Kelp Noodles?

What Are the Health Benefits of Kelp Noodles?
Photo Credit kelp at aquarium image by Daniel Gillies from Fotolia.com

Kelp, a type of seaweed, is known to possess many health benefits. Noodles made from kelp are packed with nutrients that are found to aid in digestion and metabolism, help with thyroid function, strengthen bones and teeth, and improve your circulatory system, among other things. Kelp noodles are a raw food with a neutral flavor. They can be eaten warm or cold. They are also low in carbohydrates and calories, and are gluten-, wheat- and sugar-free.

Nutrient Content

Kelp is rich in more than 70 minerals, including potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium and iodine. It also contains enzymes, vitamins, trace elements, and more than 21 amino acids. With all of these nutrients packed in, kelp noodles make for a healthy alternative to pasta or rice.

Glandular Health

Kelp noodles contain a high quantity of iodine. Iodine is a mineral that is essential for glandular health. Because of this, kelp noodles are believed to be useful for thyroid functioning. Your thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolism, and when it is deficient in iodine, it has to work harder to do so. Thus, if you are trying to lose weight, kelp noodles might be a healthy option for you.

Bone Strength

Kelp noodles are high in calcium and magnesium. These minerals are known for their ability to aid in strengthening your bones and teeth, and preventing osteoporosis. Further, Dr. Nan Fuchs says that when taken together from a natural food source, calcium and magnesium are better absorbed by your body. Calcium and magnesium can also help with menstrual cramps, premenstrual symptoms and some cases of arthritis.

Circulatory Health

Kelp noodles are abundant in folic acid, which can play a protective role in circulatory health. Folic acid can help to protect blood vessels walls and decrease risks of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks or strokes. The rich quantities of magnesium found in kelp noodles is also beneficial to circulatory health. Magnesium is a mineral that acts as a natural relaxer and can act as an anti-inflammatory agent while also protecting against high blood pressure and heart disease.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Aug 11, 2011

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