Today on the docket, we have seaweed. A staple of Asian cuisine for thousands of years, seaweed is touted as a must-have staple in a nutritious and varied diet. So, is it really that good for you? We investigate its key benefits. At mbg we love sea veggies (hello, organic veggies+), and seaweed is one of the most popular picks in this category. Other health benefits include: “[Phytonutrients] often have antioxidant properties in the body and may offer health benefits when consumed, however more research is needed,” says Knudsen. “The nutritional composition of seaweed varies depending on the type (red, brown2, and green) as well as the season and marine environment it’s grown in.” Seaweed is also known to contain flavonoids and carotenoids, which function to fight off free radical damage within the body as well. In particular, brown seaweed contains a carotenoid called fucoxanthin3 that has a particularly impressive antioxidant effect. Caring for and supporting a healthy thyroid is important for hormone production and controlling your metabolism, and the iodine found in seaweed can help bolster thyroid function and hormone creation. “There is the potential for seaweed to contain dangerously high levels of iodine and even arsenic species,” warns Knudsen (though this is more of a concern if you are taking supplements containing seaweeds versus eating it in its natural form). “If you are buying or consuming seaweed products regularly, see if the company, manufacturer, or a third-party reviewer discloses information on heavy metal testing,” she recommends. Cannon notes that otherwise healthy adults should not exceed 1,100 mcg of iodine each day. As we transition into cooler weather, seaweed also makes the perfect addition to soup and can even be dried and crumbled atop a salad to easily enhance the nutritional value and bold flavor. Our personal favorite option? A greens powder!
