I have a riddle for you. What’s found in the sea, can be put on your face, mixed in a smoothie, or used in place of cornstarch? The answer is as random as the riddle. Some people call it the ultimate superfood, but its real name is sea moss. Sea moss can be used in cooking, found in beauty products, or taken as a supplement. Sea moss benefits are varied and numerous.
What Is Sea Moss, Isn’t It Just Another Name for Seaweed?
Actually, no. Maybe you’ve heard them used interchangeably in the past, but seaweed and sea moss are different. Sea moss is a reddish algae that’s been used in foods and as a natural remedy in Ireland, Scotland, and Jamaica for generations.
There’s a reason it’s been used for so long. Our bodies are composed of 110 different minerals, and sea moss contains 92 of those minerals. It’s often referred to as “Nature’s Multi-Vitamin”.
Most people use the gel form of sea moss in food and beauty recipes, but it can also be found in powdered and pill form. The gel is easy to make by boiling dried or raw sea moss in water.
Sea Moss Benefits
Packed With Protein
Hitting the gym but not seeing the results you want? A lack of protein could be the culprit. This is especially true if you’re on a plant-based diet. Most people get their protein from the meat they eat, so it’s no surprise that some vegetarians can struggle with getting enough.
Great news! Sea moss is an excellent source of protein. 100 grams of sea moss provides your body with six grams of protein. The even better news? The type of protein found in sea moss (taurine, if that means anything to you) helps your body burn fat and build muscle.
Fights Off The Cold
We’re getting pretty close to cold and flu season right now. Have you been preparing your body to take on the sickness? A weakened immune system makes you more susceptible to illness. Sea moss can help fix that. It’s high in iron, magnesium, phosphorous, and zinc. All of these things combine to support a strong and healthy immune system.
Supports Metabolism
The thyroid produces hormones that regulate metabolism, so even a small imbalance in the thyroid can lead to low metabolism and weight gain. Another sea moss benefit is the amount of iodine it contains. And the right amount of iodine helps your thyroid function correctly.
Sea moss can help get your metabolism back where it needs to be. It just might be the extra oomph you need to kick those last 10 pounds. Just make sure you check with your doctor before taking sea moss as an iodine supplement. Although the right amount promotes healthy thyroid function. too much iodine is dangerous.
Boosts Iron
Iron deficiency is a common problem, especially among people in the United States. Low iron in the blood can result in several things, including dizziness, fatigue, and headaches. A small amount of sea moss contains 9 times more iron than a chicken breast. That iron aids in the production of red blood cells, and increases the flow of oxygen throughout your body.
Clears Up Acne
Acne is caused by bacteria and sebum production. To rid yourself of these pesky problems, get yourself some sea moss. The high levels of sulfur in sea moss give it anti-bacterial properties that promote a healthy skin microbiome. Sea moss also slows sebum production and hydrates your skin to give you that fresh-faced look of your dreams.
Protects Your Skin
Your skin encounters so much throughout the day and over the years. Sun damage, dryness, and wrinkles can wreak havoc on your complexion. Sea moss contains sulfur, magnesium, calcium, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin K. These elements combine to protect and hydrate your skin.
Takes Care Of The Gut
A healthy digestive system depends on “good” bacteria. Without enough of this good bacteria, you’ll likely experience constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, or bloating. Sea moss benefits include a prebiotic, which “feeds” this good bacteria. Therefore, sea moss can make your gut great again.
Sea Moss Benefits For Men
A high zinc content probably doesn’t sound too exciting, but the effects of the high zinc content can be. In men, high zinc content can help increase testosterone and male sexual performance. Sea moss can also improve reproductive health by upping sperm count and improving mobility.
Sea Moss Benefits For Skin
As we’ve mentioned, sea moss can greatly improve the appearance and texture of your skin. The vitamins and antioxidants can protect skin from sun damage, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and help treat and prevent acne. Your skin will not only look and feel better, it will be stronger and healthier.
Sea Moss Benefits for Hair
The gel derived from sea moss can be applied to your hair as a leave-in conditioner. The vitamins and minerals found in sea moss serve to strengthen and nourish dry and damaged hair. The results are stronger, fuller, and more manageable locks.
What Are The Side Effects Of Sea Moss
While sea moss offers a ton of health and beauty benefits when used in moderation, it’s important to note possible side effects. This is especially important if you are ingesting it. As we mentioned before, the high levels of iodine can be dangerous if too much is taken. Too much iodine can lead to a thyroid disorder, which is no joke at all.
Other side effects of sea moss can include burning or reddening skin and nausea and/or vomiting.
Conclusion
Sea moss is a powerhouse of vitamins and nutrients and has a bunch of benefits and uses. From fighting acne to nourishing hair and protecting your gut. But, as with everything, you should be careful not to overdo it.
So, will you be adding a little sea moss into your health and beauty routine? Let us know in the comments below or on our Instagram.
And if you’re looking for another powerful natural food/supplement, check out our article about ginger.