Sea Moss, commonly known asIrishSea Moss, is one of the trending “superfoods” that may be the answer to glowing skin,weight lossand better digestion. But does this health trend have merit or will it join the long list of fads like celery juice and lemon detox diet?
Where to Buy Irish Sea Moss in Australia
You may be able to purchase Irish Sea Moss in its whole form at your local health food store. They can also be found in local markets like Melbourne’s Caribbean Market.
Online you can purchase Sea MossFlakes, in a powder, or in the form of acapsule. You can buy it in its whole form, but it can be difficult to source.
What is Irish Sea Moss?
Irish Mossis a type ofred algae thatis found in the oceans of theCaribbeanas well on the rocky areas of theAtlanticcoast. Also known by its Latin name “Chondrus crispus”,Sea Mosshas been used traditionally by a variety of cultures across Jamaica,Irelandand Scotland to improve health. In folk medicine, thered algaeis used as ananti-viralto support theimmune system, an anti-inflammatory and for its micronutrient profile.
In some cultures, the extract “carrageenan” derived fromIrish Moss, is used as afood additiveorthickening agentto makeice cream, yoghurt and cottage cheese. Others drink thesuperfoodwith milk and honey after it has been boiled with water.
However, these days you are more likely to findIrish Mossin pill or powder form used to make celebrity-backedsuperfoodsmoothies,skincarelotionsand masks as well asvegansupplements.
What are the Health Benefits of Irish Sea Moss?
Considered one of the most powerful marine superfoods, Sea Moss is rich in nutrients including vegan protein, fibre, potassium chloride, magnesium, iodine, folate, selenium, calcium, zinc and phosphorus.
It’s the properties of Irish Sea Moss that have been associated with improved thyroid function, digestive tract health, weight loss, mucus membrane support, mental health and even fertility. We take a look at the health benefits of Irish Moss and why it has become one of the most sought after plant-based superfoods on the market.
Immune Support
One of the most talked-about benefits ofSea Mossis preventing and relieving cold and flu symptoms through its anti-microbial andanti-viralproperties.Irish Mossis rich a source ofvitamin C, zinc andamino acids– nutrients that are vital in supporting theimmune systemand preventing cellular damage. It’s also rich inpotassium chloride, which acts as an anti-inflammatory andanti-coagulantbreaking downphlegmin themucus membranesand relieving congestion. So if you have a sore throat or a phlegmy cough it may pay to add thered algaeinto yourwhole fooddiet.
Gut Health
By acting as ananti-coagulantand soothing themucus membranes,IrishSea Mossalso helps to heal and maintaindigestive tracthealth. In addition,animal studies have found,sea mossexerts aprebioticeffect on the gut microbiome and may reduce pathogenic bacteria. This can not only improve the gut microbiome environment but also strengthen your immunity and enhance your mental health.
Thered algaemay also help to alleviate persisting acid reflux and the fibre content can help to regulate bowel function and reduce symptoms of gas. For some, Irish See Moss may have alaxativeeffect, relieving chronic constipation.
Thyroid Function
Kelp contains thethyroid hormoneT3 precursor DI-Iodothyronine (DIT) as well as Thyroxin (T4) and Tri-iodothyronine (T3). Short-term dietary supplementation may help to treat disorders wherethyroid function is impaired.
Sea Mossalso contains high concentrations of iodine, the fuel of thethyroid gland, and theessential mineral, selenium, which is necessary forthyroid hormoneproduction.
Fertility
IrishSea Mossis rich inessential mineralsand vitamins that are needed for prenatal health. For example, theb-vitamin, folate, is vital for healthy development of the foetus and protecting against neural tube defects such as spina bifida. The iodine content also helps to support optimal brain and bone development during pregnancy and infancy and promotes normal breast tissue.
Mental Health
Edible seaweed also contains neuro-active properties which may offer a neuroprotective effect.Red algae, in particular, may be beneficial in slowing the progression of disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. AsSea Mosscontains high amounts of potassium, a nutrient vital for the function ofhuman bodycells, its consumption may improve overall cognitive function and behaviour. Potassium-rich foods are also prescribed for depression, anxiety, agitation and fibromyalgia.
In addition, B vitamins are vital for the function of the nervous system and energy production, as well as reducing symptoms of stress.
Heavy Metal Detoxification
Sea mossmay also be used inheavy metaldetoxification due to the presence of the phytonutrient, algin.Heavy metalsare present everywhere – in the air, water, soil, and food supply which can lead to toxicity. Even chronic, low-level exposure toheavy metalshas been linked with a variety of health problems from neuropsychiatric imbalances and fatigue to organ dysfunction, infertility, headache and infections like candida. Consumption ofSea Mossmay help to pull theseheavy metalsfrom the body’s tissues and reduce the toxic load.
Skin Care
The nutrient content ofIrishSea Mossand it’shealth benefitsfor digestion and detoxification are all going to be beneficial for overallskin health. In addition,red algaeis rich in sulphur which can help to relieve inflammation and reduce pathogenic microorganisms on the skin.
The addition of the vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin K andomega-3 fatty acidsare also essential to promote optimal skin cell function and keep your skin hydrated.
Are There Any Downsides?
The research intoIrishSea Mossand itshealth benefitsor negative effects isn’t substantial, with mostly animal studies leading the way. There are however some things to consider when usingIrishSea Moss.
- There are valid concerns about the degradation of one of the active component ofIrish Moss,carrageenanand how it affects our health. Carrageenan is extracted from the algae and used as afood additiveto stabilise or thicken processed foods. It’s not the same assea mossin itswhole foodform.
- For people with autoimmune thyroid diseases, like Hashimoto’s, too much iodine from any source can trigger hypothyroidism.
- While it is rare, you can consume too much iodine which long term can lead to the enlargement of thethyroid glandand inflammation. It is, therefore, important to consider how muchSea Mossyou are consuming. However, iodine deficiency is particularly common in women.
- As with any nutrition supplement, it is important you are purchasing a quality product from a trusted source due to impurities, additives and poor labelling that could negatively affect your health. Read the labels and do your research!
- Beauty products containing Sea Moss can also be misleading. Be cautious of products that read “organic” as there is no true legislation around this when it comes to skincare and “extract” as this may refer to the compound, carrageenan.
One thing to keep in mind is that although there have been several animal studies researching thehealthbenefitsofSea Moss, there is still a need for human-controlled trials to support these claims. However, due to the beneficial vitamin and mineral content,IrishSea Mossis likely to be a good addition to a balanced and healthywhole fooddiet.
How Do You Prepare & Use Irish Sea Moss?
Irish Sea Moss has a variety of uses depending on the form it is purchased in and how it is prepared.
Preparation
If purchased dry, it is recommended you soak the Sea Moss in filtered water for a few hours to soften. Once soaked, rinse well to remove any sand or other impurities.
If purchased fresh sea moss, you’ll simply need to rinse it well to remove any sand or grit.
To get the most therapeutic benefit ofSea Moss, it is recommended you avoid cooking it as this changes the chemical structure of the algae in a similar way to fruits and vegetables.
Uses
In its natural form, Irish Sea Moss has a strong, seaweed flavour so it may be worth starting with small quantities or disguise it with other flavours as you build up a tolerance. Once prepared, the Sea moss can be used as-is or blended up with water to make a gel before adding to recipes for consumption.
You can try usingIrishSea Mossin:
- Smoothies
- Soups
- Casseroles and stew
- Salads and dressings
- Raw desserts
- Cakes and muffins
- Vegannut cheeses
The gel of Irish Sea Moss can also be used topically to make skin lotions or facemasks.
Do you use Irish Sea Moss? Drop Us a Comment!
Have you tried Irish Sea Moss? Let me know about your experiences in the comments below!
