Sea Moss Benefits
*Don't consume Sea Moss if you're Allergic to Iodine*
What Is Irish Sea Moss?
Sea moss is a species of red algae that grows near the coast line in rocky areas of the Atlantic coast. In its natural state, color varies between brownish purple to greenish yellow. Below we have listed and explained our reasons why you should be consuming sea moss regularly. Irish sea moss is a seaweed famous for its rich measure of minerals and antioxidants. It is believed to be native to the Atlantic Coast of Europe and North America. However, today it is primarily used to thicken smoothies and milk in the Caribbean.
There are two main categories of sea moss on the market:
- Whole Irish moss of the gracilaria variety
- The Chondrus crispus species
The difference is that the gracilaria variety is usually sold as a whole seaweed while the Chondrus crispus is sold as dried flakes. Chondrus crispus is higher in nutrients but has a stronger flavor hence a less desirable ingredient for use in food. On the other hand, the gracilaria sea moss variety is almost tasteless, albeit, with a subtle scent of seaweed. The scent is hardly noticeable, especially when the seaweed is camouflaged in food or drinks. Since it takes on the flavor of the food it is used in, gracilaria sea moss is most commonly used in food.
As mentioned previously, Irish sea moss is loaded with nutrients and minerals - one of the most abundant being iodine, which plays a key role in thyroid function. It’s important to note that optimal function within our bodies is accomplished when there is a perfect balance of necessary nutrients. This balance - or homeostasis - is important. Too much iodine can throw that delicate balance out of whack just as much as too little iodine could. Although, modern-day diet and lifestyles make it hard to get too much iodine, so that’s generally not a concern. With all this in mind though, you don’t want to overdo it on sea moss.
Top Ten Benefits of Irish Sea Moss
1) Promotes regular thyroid function- The thyroid is a gland found in the neck below the Adams apple. This gland secretes hormones known as triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4). These hormones are known as T3 and T4 based on the atoms of iodine per molecule. T3= 3 iodine atoms per molecule, T4= 4 iodine atoms per molecule. These hormones have effects on most of the body's tissues and increase BMR (basal metabolic rate). Here are just a few examples of what the thyroid is responsible for:
- Increases blood flow by directly increasing the rate and strength of the heartbeat.
- Increases the growth rate of the developing brain cells in the fetus. Increases the growth rate of young children.
- Plays a major role in thought patterns, sexual function, and sleep. Regulates central and peripheral nervous system function.
- Regulates menstrual cycle. Controls cholesterol levels.
- The most common cause of thyroid abnormalities is iodine deficiency.
- Iodine is one of the many minerals found abundantly in sea moss.
- By consuming sea moss regularly, you are directly feeding the thyroid.
2) Improves metabolism- What we refer to as our metabolism is really the process of chemical transformation that occurs within our cells. After food is consumed, our metabolism is responsible for 3 functions. Converting food into energy for cellular functions Converting food into building and recovery elements for cells Discarding waste after enough food has been processed for the above-mentioned conversions
3) Improves circulation- Filters out germs and other bacteria during blood circulation
4) Boosts immune function- Sea moss is known to have antiviral, antibacterial, anticoagulant, and antimicrobial properties.
5) Promotes digestive regularity- sea moss is known to ease many digestive issues such as indigestion, gastritis, ulcers, and constipation. It is said due to the jelly- like consistency of sea moss, it can provide relief to all inflamed mucus membranes by coating the intestinal wall and at the same time pulling toxins out of the body.
6) Suppresses appetite- Sea moss is a great appetite suppressant due to its high concentration of minerals and its nutrient density. Most of us experience the uncomfortable sensations in our stomach when we have not consumed anything for a period of time. This discomfort may be coupled with weakness and cravings. This is the feeling that we know as hunger. Today we have many companies that create products to assist in the regulation and suppression of this hunger. Do your due diligence in researching what works best for you should you go that route. However, for the people that are looking to suppress their appetite in a more natural and healthier way, sea moss should be considered. When you process sea moss into gel form, it is easy to add as an ingredient with other foods and drinks. Due to its jelly-like consistency, when sea moss is consumed it passes through the intestines and soothes any inflammation as well as remove any toxins. Sea moss consumed regularly will help to eliminate cravings and as a result, bring the body back to its natural weight based on your level of activity and nutrition.
7) Promotes healthy sexual function- Due to the generous amount of zinc and other minerals that are vital for reproductive function and health, sea moss is great for anyone who desires an increased sex drive. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, sea moss promotes circulation throughout the entire body especially our reproductive organs. For male readers who are having trouble with sex related drive, stamina, erection, and other abnormalities, then you should consider consuming sea moss regularly. For female readers who are experiencing a lack in desire, painful sexual experience due to dryness, feminine irritation, and anything else related to this topic, then a regular dose of sea moss may improve this situation.
8) Rich in vitamins and minerals- Sea moss is loaded with nutrients that are vital to the human body such as bromine, sulfur, calcium, iodine, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, beta-carotene, selenium, protein, pectin, zinc, vitamin-C and B-vitamins just to name a few.
9) Recovery- Sea moss provides relief from muscle and joint pain. Whether you are a professional athlete, fitness enthusiast, or perform any kind of heavy lifting at work, sea moss can help replace the minerals that you deplete the body of when performing these activities.
10) Skin- Used topically as a skin and hair toner and nourisher aside from internal consumption, sea moss can be applied directly to the skin. It works great on sunburn, dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema.