Seaweed: The green superfood you need to eat
First there were acai berries, then chia seeds and kale. Now seaweed is the latest to join the superfood ranks. We tell you why.
We’re sure you’ve had the odd seaweed with sushi, but perhaps it is time to buy an entire sheet just to snack on. The humble seaweed has joined the ranks of superfoods which include kale and chia seeds.
Dare we say we are happy with this trend as seaweed tastes much better than kale!
Of course, kale and seaweed fulfil different needs in the body. The former provides magnesium and calcium only, whereas the latter is rich in that and also in iodine. Only products from the ocean contain iodine which helps the thyroid gland regenerate. Eating healthy amounts of iodine is important to maintain a healthy thyroid as it helps produce and regulate hormones.
Seaweed is also known for its detoxifying properties and it is a natural diuretic. Ladies take note of this when you’re feeling particularly bloated. It also has more calcium than milk which is good news for your bones. Folic acid, iron and potassium are also found in high amounts in seaweed, making this an excellent post-menstruation food to replenish lost nutrients.
Living in Asia, seaweed can be easily found in supermarkets and they are great for soups, sushi rolls, salad or even on its own as a quick bite. Wasabi laced seaweed snacks, anyone?
However this doesn’t mean you should throw kale or any other food group out the window. After all, having an all round healthy diet with a moderate inclusion of superfoods will make you a superwoman. Who wouldn't want that?
Cheryl Lee
