Wakame's wonders: Health benefits of the seaweed sensation
Someone tosses a green, slimy mass onto your plate, and you think, "What kind of seaweed concoction is this? Throw it out immediately!" Of course, why would you eat that greenery that looks like it came straight from some murky pond, right? Well... wrong! Seaweed is not only edible but also healthy.
Wakame seaweed is not just a tasty addition brought over from Asia, but it's also a real health booster that can invigorate a slow thyroid, help shed pounds, and even improve overall health. Sounds too good to be true? Read on, because I'll explain why seaweed should be part of your menu and how it can positively impact your daily life.
Wakame seaweed - Asian superfood that will surprise you
Wakame seaweed is a type of brown algae that grows in the ocean waters of Asia but is now making its way onto Canadian plates and diets. It has an olive colour, a slightly sweet taste, and is healthier than some pharmacy vitamins. Why? Because it’s a real cocktail of vitamins A, C, E, K, and a whole array of B vitamins, plus a load of minerals: iodine (a key element for thyroid health), iron, calcium, and manganese.
You’ll also find antioxidants that combat free radicals, which helps delay aging, as well as DHA and EPA fatty acids, for which your heart will be thankful.
Moreover, wakame is light, low-calorie (about 84 kJ per 100 grams), and also prevents fat accumulation and aids in weight loss thanks to fucoxanthin (a natural carotenoid pigment). So if you dream of shedding a few pounds without exhausting yourself at the gym, seaweed might just become your ally.
How to eat seaweed? What to add seaweed to?
I know, it sounds like a "green mush" from a kitchen nightmare, but wakame seaweed is so versatile that you'll soon start wondering how you ever disliked it. Traditional Japanese, Chinese, or Korean cuisine has used it in soups (like the beloved ramen or miso), salads, and even sandwiches for years.
Want to prepare it? It's simple: just soak it in water to let it expand, then toss it into a soup or mix it with vegetables and soy sauce. The result? A slightly sweet, oceanic taste that is subtle enough that even the pickiest eater will accept this greenery. After a few minutes in water, it becomes pleasantly firm and crunchy.
Additionally, wakame seaweed is popular in vegan and vegetarian diets because it provides not only vitamins but also valuable iodine, which can sometimes be lacking in plant-based diets. And let’s not forget cosmetics containing algae! Wakame masks and creams not only make the skin smoother but also combat cellulite and signs of aging. This way, you get a double benefit—health from the inside and beauty on the outside.
Why should you eat wakame seaweed every day?
Still think seaweed is unappetizing? Then read on. These brown wonders not only improve metabolism but also support heart health, regulate blood pressure, strengthen bones, and act as anti-cancer agents.
Fucoxanthin, the pigment responsible for their colour, is a natural fat burner—it helps break down fat cells and prevents the formation of new ones. Additionally, regular consumption of wakame protects against osteoporosis and improves thyroid function, that small gland that dictates whether your metabolism operates at the right pace (in other words, it's not too slow).
