Brown seaweed is a type of algae with a high content of fucoxanthin, a carotenoid found naturally in edible brown seaweed such as wakame and hijiki.
Fucoxanthin can also be found in red and green seaweed, but in much smaller amounts. Although the richest source of fucoxanthin is brown seaweed, a person would have to eat an unrealistic amount of it daily to get fucoxanthin levels close to those used in research studies. In fact, to eat the proper amount of fucoxanthin could be very dangerous as the iodine levels would be extremely high. By consuming too much edible seaweed at once, you’re running the risk of iodine poisoning. Fucoxanthin is a popular nutrient in Asia and Europe. One of the first benefits discovered by scientists was the ability of fucoxanthin to help us lose belly fat.
Fucus vesiculosus, known by the common name bladder wrack, is a seaweed found on the coasts of the North Sea, the western Baltic Sea, and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, also known by the common names black tang, rockweed, bladder fucus, sea oak, black tany, cut weed, dyers fucus, red fucus, and rock wrack.
It was the original source of iodine, discovered in 1811, and was used extensively to treat goitre, a swelling of the thyroid gland related to iodine deficiency. In the 1860s, it was claimed that bladder wrack, as a thyroid stimulant, could counter obesity by increasing the metabolic rate and, since then, it has been featured in numerous weight-loss remedies.
Kelp is high in iodine (great for treating thyroid issues) which must be present for proper glandular function and metabolism. It also contains phosphorus and calcium, as well as magnesium and potassium. Kelp is a source of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and E, plus amino acids. Because kelp is the saltiest of sea veggies, it makes a popular salt substitute. However, it’s been tested to be low in sodium. there are thousands of different types of kelp and it is exceptionally rich in iodine,. It is also rich in iron, magnesium and folate.
Wakame has anti-obesity properties and is very high in EPA, an essential fatty acid. It can be added to soups and stews. This seaweed is iron-rich and 10 times more calcium than a glass of milk!
Arame (a type of kelp) like all other seaweed, is a rich source of calcium, zinc and iodine. It is also a good source of Lignans which help fight cancer.
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- 5 – Seaweeds: Blue-green algae and Spirulina
- 1- Seaweeds: superfood from the sea
- 6 – Seaweeds: Microalgae and Chlorella
