Seaweed benefits for health and beauty are very important for body care. Not only can it prevent and treat various diseases, you can also use it as a skin care ingredient, especially from beauty products that use it as a basic ingredient.
Benefits of seaweed for health
- Supports thyroid gland function
Seaweed is useful to support the function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland has an important role in the body’s metabolic system. The thyroid gland functions to repair damaged cells and produce energy. To carry out its function, the thyroid gland needs iodine intake which can be obtained by consuming seaweed. Several types of seaweed, such as nori, wakame, and kelp have high iodine content as one of the nutrients needed by the thyroid gland to produce these hormones. In addition, seaweed contains the amino acid tyrosine, which is needed for the thyroid gland to carry out its functions.
- Good source of vitamins and minerals
Each type of seaweed contains different vitamins and minerals. In general, 1 tablespoon (7 grams) of seaweed contains about 20 calories, 1.7 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of protein, 0.5 grams of fat, and 0.3 grams of fiber.
In addition, seaweed contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K along with folate, zinc, sodium, calcium, and magnesium.
- Contains various antioxidants
Antioxidants function to ward off free radicals that damage cells in the body. Excessive production of free radicals is the cause of certain types of diseases. By consuming seaweed, the possibility of cell damage is lower. Seaweed also stores a variety of antioxidant compounds such as flavonoids and carotenoids, which have been shown to protect cells from free radical damage.
- Maintain digestion and intestinal health
Seaweed contains high amounts of fiber, which is known to support digestive health. In addition, polysaccharides in seaweed help increase the growth of good bacteria found in the digestive tract.
- Improve heart health
Seaweed is a good source of soluble fiber and contains omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that are beneficial for heart health.
Several studies have shown that the nutritional content in seaweed appears to be able to lower blood pressure, reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and total cholesterol, and prevent blood clots. However, further clinical research is needed to strengthen this evidence.
Benefits of seaweed for beauty
- acne remover
Seaweed has anti-inflammatory compounds that have a positive effect on inflammation in the skin. Anti-inflammatory in seaweed can reduce swelling of acne, shrink pores, and remove dead skin cells.
- Rejuvenate skin
Seaweed is rich in iodine which can help improve thyroid function. The thyroid gland produces amino acids that absorb iodine and produce metabolic-regulating chemicals in the blood. Smooth metabolism helps skin rejuvenation.
- Exfoliating dead skin cells
Seaweed can draw dirt and excess fluid from the skin. Often used as a natural cleanser and used as a scrub because of its properties that can regenerate dead skin cells.
- Caring for scalp health
Seaweed, arame, and other Japanese dishes are believed to nourish the scalp and hair follicles. Mineral-rich seaweed can improve blood circulation, strengthen hair, and make it shiny.
- Reduce swelling
Seaweed is rich in vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12 which act as anti-inflammatory and reduce blood clots under the skin. In addition, seaweed can also smooth the facial skin.
- Minimize cellulite
The content of vitamins and minerals in seaweed can remove scars caused by cellulite. Several moisturizers containing seaweed have been sold in the market to treat cellulite and stretch marks.