What Are The Benefits Of Seaweed?

Seaweed is a traditional food staple in Asian countries such as China, Japan and the Republic of Korea. There are several types of seaweed used in several cuisines like nori, wakame and hiziki, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Seaweed is commonly referred to as a "miracle plant" due to its many therapeutic properties, according to Frederick Simoons in his book "Food in China." Although this food may be exotic, you can garner some impressive benefits from eating it.

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Both fresh and dried seaweed are an outstanding source of minerals, including macrominerals and trace minerals. The most notable mineral is iodine, which is consumed twice as much in Japan as it is in America, according to Simoons. Iodine is necessary for the normal metabolism of cells for converting food into energy. It is also required to maintain normal thyroid function and the production of hormones, MedlinePlus says. Additional minerals present in seaweed are iron, vitamins A, C and B complex. Regularly supplementing seaweed into your diet provides keratin-enhancing compounds to strengthen both your nails and hair, as well as improve the texture of your skin.

High in Protein

The protein content of nori seaweed is approximately 40 percent, which is equal to the nutritional value of meat, fish or soybeans, according to Heihachiro Tohyama and Yukiko Moriyama in their book "Quick and Easy Sushi Cookbook." Seaweed can help you to meet daily-recommended protein values with excess fat or carbohydrates. All seaweed varieties are excellent sources of protein, generally ranging between 4 and 25 percent of their dry weight, according to Christopher Lobban and Michael Wynne in their book "The Biology of Seaweeds." Proteins help to maintain bones, muscles and skin, with the average person requiring 50 to 65g of protein each day, MedlinePlus says.

Rich in Fiber

All types of seaweed contain a high fiber content with the soluble portion consisting of sulphated galactans in red seaweeds and fucans in brown seaweeds, according to Jis Khattar in his book "Algal Biology and Biotechnology." These soluble compounds help to reduce constipation, hypercholesterolemia, obesity and diabetes while also encouraging regular bowel movements over time. Seaweed also helps to promote the growth and protection of beneficial intestinal flora and can also act as a hypoglycemic by regulating blood sugar levels.