Sea moss, also known as Irish moss or by its scientific name Chondrus crispus, is a type of seaweed found on the Atlantic coasts of Europe and North America. Like other seaweeds, it’s a rich source of many nutrients, which is why it’s making waves in the wellness world.
Sea moss has been used for centuries in various cultures for its nutritional and medicinal properties, but over the past few years it’s gained significant traction on social media platforms – particularly Instagram and TikTok – with many touting it as the next big superfood.
In this guide we’ll explore the potential benefits of sea moss and why it’s been granted superfood status. We’ll also discuss some possible side effects to be aware of, and the different ways to incorporate sea moss into your diet.
Potential Benefits of Sea Moss
Here are some of the possible benefits of sea moss, and the reasons why it’s being touted as the latest superfood:
1. Rich in Nutrients
Sea moss is packed with vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iodine, potassium, magnesium, iron and vitamins including A, B, C, E and K. It’s also a source of omega-3 and antioxidants. [1]
2. Supports Thyroid Function
The iodine content in sea moss is beneficial for thyroid health, as iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. [2]
3. Boosts Immune System
The high levels of antioxidants and vitamins in sea moss can help strengthen the immune system, helping your body to fight against infections and inflammation. [3]
4. Improves Gut Health
Sea moss contains a type of fibre called carrageenan, which can help improve gut health by acting as a prebiotic and supporting good gut bacteria. [4]
5. Helps with Skin Health
Applied topically, sea moss can help hydrate and soothe the skin, reducing conditions like eczema and psoriasis thanks to its anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties. [5]
6. Supports Weight Loss
The fibre content in sea moss can help you to feel full for longer, which can assist in reducing overall calorie intake and supporting weight loss. [6]
7. Joint and Muscle Recovery
Sea moss has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with joint pain and muscle recovery, making it popular among athletes. [7]
Possible Side Effects of Taking Sea Moss
While sea moss is generally considered safe to consume and good for you, it’s still worth exercising a bit of caution, particularly if you have thyroid issues. While iodine is essential for thyroid health, excessive intake can lead to thyroid dysfunction in both men and women, including hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, so it’s important to consume sea moss in moderation. [8]
Other side effects may include bloating, gas and other digestive issues due to the high fibre content, and, although rare, some individuals may be allergic to sea moss. Always choose reputable manufacturers, and speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.
How to Take Sea Moss
Sea moss comes in many different forms, from powders and gels to gummies and drinks. Here are some of the most popular ways to incorporate sea moss into your diet:
- Sea Moss Gel: This is one of the most popular forms of sea moss. After soaking and blending raw sea moss with water, it turns into a gel-like substance which can be added to food and drinks or used as a topical treatment.
- Sea Moss Powder: Made from dried sea moss, sea moss powder can be added to smoothies, juices and shakes, or used in cooking.
- Sea Moss Gummies: Chewable sea moss gummies are an easy way to enjoy the benefits of sea moss. They’re generally flavoured, making them a sweet and tasty alternative to gel and powder forms.
- Sea Moss Capsules: Sea moss is also available in capsule form for quick and easy consumption as a supplement.
- Sea Moss Drinks: Ready-made drinks are another easy way to incorporate sea moss into your diet.
The Take Home
Incorporating nutrient-rich, plant-based supplements into your diet can have a profound impact on your health and well-being. And while sea moss is currently making waves, it’s not the only powerhouse in the superfood world.
For those looking to elevate their daily nutrition with a convenient, all-in-one solution, our Super Greens Extreme blend is made from more than 20 different superfoods – including spirulina, spinach, wheatgrass, matcha, and ashwagandha. Rich in antioxidants and designed to boost immunity and focus, this innovative greens powder blend is an ideal complement to a health-conscious lifestyle.
Check out our Super Greens Extreme blend or explore our full Supplements range for an easy way to add more nutrients to your diet.
References:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8232781/
[2] https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3837755/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4535385/
[5] https://nationaleczema.org/blog/sea-moss-for-eczema/
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7151636/
[7] https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/AJMS/article/view/20978
[8] https://academic.oup.com/jes/article/5/Supplement_1/A906/6240965