Is The Sea Moss Wellness Trend Worth The Hype? Know Its Benefits And Side Effects

Who doesn’t like age-old hacks that do wonders for health? Similarly, an algae – which has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine – has been doing the rounds since quite some time. Wellness enthusiasts are going gaga over this edible sea plant that is available in all forms and shapes, from gummies to gels. This red seaweed is a storehouse of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and is said to have multiple health benefits. We are talking about sea moss.

(This article has been medically reviewed by Edwina Raj, Head of Services - Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore).

What Is Sea Moss?

Sea moss is a kind of algae and seaweed, which is also known as Irish sea moss or red seaweed. It is usually harvested to extract carrageenan, a jelly-like substance that is mostly used for thickening of food products. It is mainly used as health supplements and thickening of commercial foods.

Scientifically known as Chondrus crispus, sea moss is found in the waters along the rocky Atlantic coasts, mainly between North America and Europe. It comes in several colours like green, purple, yellows, black and brown. But the most common one is red.

Does Sea Moss Have Any Nutritional Value? 

As per the USDA FoodData Central, 2 tablespoons (tbsp) or 10 gram (g) of sea moss contains the following (approximately):

• calories: 4.9
• protein: 0.2 g
• fat: 0 g
• carbohydrates: 1.2 g
• sugars: 0.1 g
• calcium: 7.2 milligrams (mg)
• magnesium: 14.4 mg
• phosphorous: 15.7 mg
• potassium: 6.3 mg
• iron: 0.9 mg
• zinc: 0.2 mg
• copper: 0.02 mg
• manganese: 0.04 mg

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Health Benefits Of Sea Moss

Sea moss has been in use for ages, but research related to its medical benefits have reportedly been started by scientists not so long ago. Let’s take a look at some of the potential health benefits of sea moss:

• Prevention of Parkinson’s disease.
• Supports thyroid health.
• Improves immunity.
• Boosts heart health.
• Helps in weight loss.
• Improves gut health.

Let’s take a look at some of the ways it can potentially help improve skin health, boost immunity and promote weight loss.

Skin Health: Sea moss is rich in vitamin and mineral content, which makes it beneficial for skincare. It is believed to help retain and lock in skin moisture.

Immunity Boost: Sea moss is rich in iron and antioxidants, both of which are a boon for immunity.

Weight Loss: Sea moss contains carrageenan. It might lower body fat and improve one’s microbiota profile.

How To Use Sea Moss 

Sea moss can be used in various ways. Let’s take a look at some of them:

Sea Moss Gel

Sea moss gel’s texture is like that of aloe vera. It can be mixed with water and made into a puree that can be added to smoothies or soups. The gel tastes like clams or oysters.

Sea Moss Powder or Capsules

Sea moss supplements are found in different forms like gels, powders, gummies and capsules. The supplements are said to be tasteless.

Tips for Daily Consumption of Sea Moss

To add it to your daily diet, add about one to two tablespoons of sea moss gel into your smoothies, soups, or sauces. In the beginning, take a small amount of sea moss. Then increase it gradually, as per your tolerance. Excessive intake of sea moss is not recommended. Consult your doctor before you add sea moss to your diet.

Also Read: Want To Add Fenugreek Water To Your Daily Diet? Expert Shares Recipes

The Final Word

Though sea moss may have multiple benefits, its excessive intake is not recommended. Consult a physician before adding it to your daily diet.