Kelp 600mg 180' - Nature's Way
If you’re a fan of Japanese cooking, you’ve probably eaten kelp. Although sometimes used as a synonym for seaweed, kelp refers to brown algae from the Laminariaceae family. The kelp most often used in Japanese dishes, including miso soup and udon, is kombu.
Since kelp is rich in nutrients, many claims have been made about its health benefits. Scientists haven’t proven many of these claims yet, but kelp is still a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet. Kelp is rich in umami; the fifth lesser known taste alongside sweet, sour, bitter, and salty. Umami gives food a savory or meaty flavor.
Seaweed contains ten times as many minerals as plants grown in soil. People who eat seaweed seldom have mineral deficiencies. Kelp also has proven health benefits and some that scientists hope to document in the future.
● Thyroid Health
Your thyroid requires iodine to function properly. Your body does not manufacture iodine, so it's important to get it through your diet. If you don’t have enough iodine, your thyroid won’t produce enough of some necessary hormones, a condition known as hypothyroidism. Kelp contains iodine, and can prevent hypothyroidism.
● Diabetes Control
Kelp contains a mineral called vanadium that could help people with Type 2 diabetes. Early studies using animals and humans have shown that it can help regulate blood sugar. Researchers need to find out more about how vanadium behaves in the body before it will be available on the market.
Scientists are also investigating fucoxanthin, a substance in brown algae that could help with weight management, which is important for people with diabetes. Researchers found that fucoxanthin increased production of omega-3 fatty acid DHA and the protein involved in fat metabolism in rodents. However, it’s not possible for humans to eat enough seaweed to experience these benefits.
● Prevention of Anemia
Kelp is moderately rich in iron, which is necessary to prevent the iron deficiency known as anemia. If you have anemia, your body’s tissues don't get enough oxygen because of a shortage of red blood cells. Menstruating women are especially at risk of anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and other symptoms.
● Nutrition
Kelp has an impressive nutritional profile. Besides iodine and iron, kelp is a rich source of:
Calcium
Folate
Magnesium
Vitamin K