Benefits of Sea moss

Sea moss, or Irish moss, is a type of sea algae that people can add to food or take as a nutritional supplem

ent. Sea moss is naturally rich in minerals and vitamins, and may have some potential health benefits with regular use. In this article, we will discuss the nutritional information of sea moss, how to prepare it, and any potential benefits and side effects.

Sea moss definition Sea moss typically refers to a specific type of algae or seaweed called Chondrus crispus, also known as Irish moss. It is a spiny, edible plant, and has some similarities to other edible seaweeds such as kombu, dulse, or wakame. Sea moss grows naturally in waters and tide pools along rocky coasts, such as coasts of the northern Atlantic Ocean. Common sea moss is a red seaweed, though it can grow in different colors as well, depending on factors such as the local climate and water temperatures.

Nutritional information According to the FDA 2 tablespoons (tbsp) or a 10 gram (g) serving of sea moss contains approximately:

• calories: 4.9

• protein: 0.2 g

• fat: 0 g

• carbohydrates: 1.2 g

• sugars: 0.1 g

The same serving of sea moss also contains these vitamins and minerals:

• calcium: 7.2 milligrams (mg)

• magnesium: 14.4 mg

• phosphorous: 15.7 mg

• potassium: 6.3 mg

• iron: 0.9 mg

• zinc: 0.2 mg

• copper: 0.02 mg

• manganese: 0.04 mg

Uses Sea moss has a history of use in cultures close to where the moss naturally grows. Sea moss is a natural thickener called carrageenan. This can make it a good addition to soups, stews, or other foods that need thickening. Some companies still harvest and sell the dried sea moss itself, but it is more common to find sea moss in the form of a dietary supplement.

Supplements may contain sea moss on its own, or with a combination of other ingredients. The sea moss is usually in powdered or gel form.

Some companies may take advantage of the thickening properties of sea moss to create products such as vitamin gummies or gels.