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Weight Loss With Kelp

Jul 1, 2011 | By Brian Willett
Weight Loss With Kelp
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Kelp is a type of algae, or seaweed, that grows in shallow areas of oceans. Although it is not a common food, kelp can be consumed and may be useful for weight loss. It is low in calories and fat, so it may be a good substitute for high-calorie foods in your diet. While kelp does have some beneficial characteristics for weight loss, some of its qualities may not be optimal for your personal diet plan.

Calorie Content

Kelp is low in calories, a feature that makes it appropriate for weight loss. Each 100-g serving of kelp contains 43 calories, about 2 percent of the 2,000 calories recommended as a daily intake for the average American adult. You can burn the calories in a 100-g serving of kelp relatively quickly through activity. A five-minute jog would be sufficient to burn 43 calories.

Fat Content

Kelp does not contain much fat, as each 100-g serving contains .6 g. Fat is higher in calories than protein and carbohydrates, so eating low-fat foods can be beneficial for dieting. However, the lack of fat in kelp can also be a drawback for weight loss, as the nutrient provides feelings of fullness, so it can aid in appetite control.

Carbohydrate Content

Kelp derives most of its calories from carbohydrates. Each 100-g serving of kelp contains 9.6 g of this nutrient, which provides your body with energy. While carbohydrates can be beneficial, a research review from the February 2006 issue of "Archives of Internal Medicine" suggests that low-carbohydrate diets produce quicker weight loss than those higher in carbohydrates.

Fiber Content

Kelp is low in fiber, with 1.3 g in each 100 g serving. Consuming high-fiber foods can help you lose weight because it promotes feelings of fullness.

Protein

Kelp contains little protein, as each 100-g serving contains only 1.7 g. Low-protein foods such as kelp may not be optimal for weight loss, as research published in the October 2004 issue of "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" indicates that increased protein intake can improve weight loss and fat loss.

Calcium

Kelp is rich in calcium, with each 100 g serving containing 168 mg of this nutrient. Calcium is required for optimal bone health, and research from the January 2010 issue of "International Journal of Obesity" found that increased calcium consumption could promote increased fat loss.

References

Article reviewed by MER Last updated on: Jul 1, 2011

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