Sea Vegetables! A Great Source of Iodine for your Thyroid!

Kelp, nori, dulse, wakame, Irish moss, and arame are all types of edible seaweeds, and they are used in a variety of culinary, medicinal, and nutritional applications. Here’s a breakdown of each one and their uses:

1. Kelp

• Types: Includes various species such as Laminaria.

• Uses:

  • Culinary: Kelp is often used in soups, salads, and sushi rolls. In Japanese cuisine, it’s commonly used to make dashi, a type of broth.

  • Nutritional: Kelp is rich in iodine, vitamins (A, C, K, and B), and minerals (especially calcium and magnesium). It's often used in supplements for thyroid health.

  • Medicinal: Kelp is used to support thyroid function due to its high iodine content and to aid in detoxification due to its ability to bind heavy metals.

  • Other Uses: Sometimes used in animal feed and cosmetics for its nourishing properties.

    
    

2. Nori

• Types: Porphyra species, commonly used for sushi.

• Uses:

  • Culinary: Nori is most famous for its use in sushi rolls and onigiri (Japanese rice balls). It’s also used as a garnish for soups or noodles.

  • Nutritional: High in protein, vitamins (especially B12), and minerals. It’s a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber.

  • Medicinal: Nori is sometimes consumed for its antioxidant properties and to support cardiovascular health.

  • Other Uses: It can also be used to make snacks like crispy seaweed or in seasoning blends.

    
    

3. Dulse

• Types: Palmaria palmata, found along the Atlantic coasts.

• Uses:

  • Culinary: Dulse can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried and is often added to salads, soups, or sandwiches. It’s also popular as a snack when dried and toasted.

  • Nutritional: Dulse is a good source of protein, iodine, and various minerals like potassium and magnesium. It's also known for having a high level of antioxidants.

  • Medicinal: Dulse may support digestion and is sometimes used to soothe an upset stomach. It’s also believed to have a mild laxative effect.

  • Other Uses: Used in animal feed and sometimes in natural skin care products for its moisturizing properties.

    
    

4. Wakame

• Types: Undaria pinnatifida, commonly found in East Asian cuisine.

• Uses:

  • Culinary: Wakame is often used in miso soup and seaweed salads. It’s also added to various soups, stir-fries, and even in sushi rolls.

  • Nutritional: Wakame is rich in vitamins A, C, and D, as well as minerals like iodine, calcium, and magnesium. It’s also known for being low in calories.

  • Medicinal: Wakame is believed to support heart health, improve skin elasticity, and aid in weight management due to its high fiber content.

  • Other Uses: Wakame is also used in some beauty products for its hydrating and anti-aging properties.

    
    

5. Irish Moss (Carrageen Moss)

• Types: Chondrus crispus, often found in the Atlantic coasts of Ireland and North America.

• Uses:

  • Culinary: Irish moss is often used to make vegan gelatine or as a thickening agent in soups, drinks, and desserts. It’s also used to make sea moss gel, which is added to smoothies and health drinks.

  • Nutritional: It is rich in minerals like iodine, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Irish moss is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K. It’s used as a source of prebiotic fiber.

  • Medicinal: Known for supporting immune health, digestive health, and skin hydration. It’s also believed to help with inflammation and respiratory conditions.

  • Other Uses: Often used in cosmetics for its moisturizing and soothing properties for the skin.

    
    

6. Arame

• Types: Eisenia bicyclis, a type of brown algae.

• Uses:

  • Culinary: Arame is often used in stir-fries, salads, and soups. It has a mild flavor and is less salty compared to other seaweeds.

  • Nutritional: Arame is rich in iodine, iron, calcium, and other essential minerals. It's also a good source of dietary fiber.

  • Medicinal: Arame is sometimes consumed to support thyroid health due to its iodine content and to aid in digestive health.

  • Other Uses: It’s often used in supplements and as an additive to animal feed.

Summary of Nutritional Benefits of These Seaweeds:

• Rich in minerals: Many of these seaweeds are packed with essential minerals, particularly iodine, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

• Good for digestion: They often contain fiber and other compounds that promote gut health.

• High in antioxidants: These seaweeds contain polyphenols and other antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Support for thyroid health: Many seaweeds, especially kelp, nori, and arame, contain high levels of iodine, which is crucial for thyroid function.

  
  

Each of these seaweeds offers a unique flavor, texture, and nutritional profile, making them a versatile addition to many diets. Whether used in traditional dishes or in more modern recipes, they provide numerous health benefits!

Food for thought!

...Stay Healthy Friends! :0)

T xo