Kelp. Useful properties, composition, instructions for the use of algae. Recipes for face masks, slimming, wraps, labor stimulation

Classic kelp grows in the ocean and belongs to the seaweed family. The plant is subsequently dried and used for various purposes and has a large number of useful properties, and the contraindications are minimal. It is also a popular dietary supplement that addresses many thyroid problems and helps control metabolism.

Composition of kelp

Laminaria, the useful properties and contraindications of which will be discussed in the article, contains at least 70 vitamins, enzymes, minerals, trace elements and proteins. Contains vitamins B1, B12, B2, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and iodine.

• Calorie content: 30 g of kelp contains 12 calories, and this is 1% of the daily value.
• Fats: there is little fat in algae (0.2 g per 30 g). Of this, the amount of saturated fat is 0.1 g. The product contains omega-3 (2.2 mg) and omega-6 (5.6 mg) - healthy fatty acids for the heart.
• Vitamins: kelp contains a sufficient amount of vitamins such as A, B2, B1, B6, B12, folic acid and pantothenic acid. It also provides vegetarians with the necessary levels of vitamin B12. It is an excellent source of vitamin K, providing 23% of the daily requirement per serving. Kelp also contains large amounts of folate (13% of the daily value) and vitamin A. B vitamins, in particular, are necessary for cellular metabolism and energy supply to the body. According to the University of California Medical Center, kelp has more calcium than most vegetables, including kale and greens. Calcium is important for maintaining strong bones and optimal muscle function.
• Minerals: One serving (30 g) of kelp contains 8.9 mg of potassium, 16.8 mg of calcium and other minerals such as iron, manganese, magnesium, zinc and copper.
• Selenium: this mineral is also present in algae. Selenium works together with iodine to regulate thyroid hormone. Found in brown algae, sodium has a healing effect on the digestive tract and prevents the absorption of cesium, plutonium, mercury and cadmium - all toxic metals. Algin also protects the body from radiation by preventing the absorption of strontium-90 in weapons facilities and nuclear power plants.

From a nutritional point of view, kelp is a low-calorie food. It has a high concentration of proteins, vitamins and minerals. It contains low levels of lipids and a high content of dietary fiber, especially water-soluble polysaccharides.

It has an inflammatory factor, that is, it has weak anti-inflammatory properties. The glycemic load is estimated to be 0, which means it does not control blood sugar levels.

Algae is the only source of natural plant vitamin D.

It contains chlorophyll and chelated minerals. Sodium alginate, found in kelp, rid the body of heavy metals and other toxic radioactive elements.

Useful properties of kelp

Laminaria (useful properties and contraindications are discussed below) has many advantages.

Some of them:

1. Research shows there is a strong link between eating kelp and cancer prevention. Algae contains many beneficial compounds that prevent lung and prostate cancer. These beneficial substances not only slow down the development of cancer cells, but also prevent the spread of tumors in the breast and colon. There is strong evidence that frequent consumption of seaweed can reduce rates of ovarian and breast cancer, which is why Japanese women rarely suffer from these forms of cancer. Because kelp is a rich source of vitamin C, it reduces free radical damage to the body. What's more, it also contains fucoidan, which induces apoptosis in cancer cells. In simple terms, consuming algae destroys cancer cells.
2. Maintains pH balance: kelp is an alkaline food. This means that including it in the diet is a natural way to maintain a good acid-base balance in the body. It is beneficial for digestion and most body processes.
3. Increases bone density: Algae contain many important minerals, including copper, boron, calcium, zinc, and manganese. People with weak or damaged bones can benefit from this gift of nature, as it contains all the nutrients needed to improve bone health. If a person has just recovered from an injury, he should definitely include kelp in his diet to speed up recovery. The product also prevents the symptoms of mineral deficiencies and osteoporosis.
4. Seaweed is rich in iodine, and therefore kelp extract can be used instead of salt, as it is tasty and has no side effects.
5. A mineral called fucoidan was discovered in kelpwhich fights several different types of blood disorders, including blood pressure. It is also useful in preventing ischemic diseases.

Contraindications to use

1. Conditions / diseases in which the use of foods with a high iodine content is contraindicated;
2. Pregnancy and lactation;
3. Hypersensitivity to the components of dietary supplements.

Potential harm to kelp

Great care should be taken when buying and consuming kelp. You should always know the country of origin of the product you are using. Most ocean waters are polluted and this can lead to high levels of arsenic and mercury in algae.

Generally, kelp harvested from waters in Canada, Hawaii, Iceland, and the Northwest United States is considered safe for consumption. These waters are protected, relatively free from pollution and practically untouched.

The continuous use of algae should not be allowed. You should give a 2 week break after consuming the product for a week.

This will prevent iodine overdose, which can cause thyroid problems. It is always worth consulting a doctor before consuming any seafood.

Consumption rates

• Adults - can be added to food ¼ st. l. dry powder of kelp per day or 1 capsule of dietary supplement.

  

• Children - add 1 tsp to food. dry powder from brown algae per day.

The benefits of kelp for men

1. A good source of protein. Since kelp contains over 15 different amino acids, it is extremely beneficial for increasing the amount of protein in the male body. It not only regulates cell growth, but also heals wounds and helps in muscle development.
2. Seafood strengthens the immune system by supplying it with all essential vitamins and minerals. If the man suffers from any mineral or vitamin deficiency, this is a nutritious way to improve immunity.

For women

1. The female health benefits come from its high alginic acid content. Laminaria consists of about 60% of this polysaccharide. It works like the pectin found in vegetables, berries, and fruits.
2. It is not uncommon for women to suffer from painful menstrual symptoms or PMS. By consuming kelp, you can put an end to constant fatigue, anemia and seizures during this period.
3. Brown algae has a great advantage for girls looking to lose weight. Thanks to fucoxanthin, the plant helps reduce weight and its effects are maximized when consumed with other foods such as pomegranate oil.

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For children

• Laminaria provides useful properties to the child's body. There are over 21 varieties of edible seaweed. The most suitable for children and having no contraindications for them are nori, wakame, leuver and dals. Nori is an excellent choice for children, as the product is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2 and C, as well as iodine. It's also a great protein source. Dals will be a good choice for toddlers as this alga is high in protein, iron, magnesium and beta carotene.
• Seaweed is a rich source of vitamin Kwhich is a fat-soluble nutrient. It binds to the plaque that forms blood clots. Children often fall, injuring delicate skin. Vitamin K is very beneficial as it helps in sending a chemical signal that causes platelets to form a blood clot. When this happens, the blood clots faster.
• Laminaria is a rich source of calcium... This nutrient helps keep teeth and bones strong. Calcium helps in muscle contraction and the maintenance of nervous system function. It is also a great helper in cellular communication.
• Children are active all day long and need energy. Algae are high in iron, which helps their bodies produce energy for daily activities. They also nourish the circulatory system to improve blood flow to tissues.
• Seaweed is rich in fiber. This is an important nutrient for children as it helps in regulating bowel movements and prevents constipation.
• Brown algae have antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in preventing various types of infections and allergies. They benefit babies' skin and prevent inflammation and itching.

Other benefits of seaweed:

• Improves memory.
• Promotes Good Vision.
• Improves the immune system and the thyroid system.
• Provides Healthy Skin

Laminaria during pregnancy and breastfeeding

It is advisable to avoid algae during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Some Asian countries, such as Korea, Japan and parts of China, use the practice of consuming seaweed to increase the amount of breast milk.

But at the moment, research shows that algae have a very high iodine content, which is hundreds of times higher than the daily recommended intake. If they are consumed during pregnancy or lactation, this can adversely affect the health of the fetus, that is, there will be large deposits of iodine in its body. This is very risky and can cause hypothyroidism.

How to use dry kelp thallus

Laminaria in thallus is most often nori. This product is the most abundant in seaweed. They can be crispy or soft, slightly salty, roasted, smoked or nutty. High quality nori kelp - smooth and uniform in texture, dark green in color.

Avoid buying spotty, crumbly, pale green or reddish algae.

It is necessary to store them in sealed packaging, and if you plan not to consume algae for about 2 weeks, you need to pack the product well and place it in the freezer, where it will retain its freshness for about six months.

Nori can be added to any dish, such as wrapping an omelet with spinach and avocado in a kelp thallus, you get a great nutritious breakfast. For a snack, you can use a toasted nori leaf seasoned with sesame oil and sprinkled with a pinch of salt. Cut the leaf into equal pieces, add boiled rice, kimchi or a fried egg.

Dry kelp powder

Organic kelp powder is an excellent source of iodine, a trace mineral that is essential for healthy organ function.

• Taste and use

The salty taste of kelp can be described as “umami”, which means “pleasant spicy taste” in Japanese. It is best to consume 1 tsp. per day, added to any dish. Kelp powder goes well with healthy cocktails, and is used as a salad dressing or topping. It is necessary to add the product to soups, stews or spicy side dishes.

• Health benefits of the powder

1. Excellent Source of Iodine: Organic Kelp Powder is saturated with iodine. It is essential for the production of hormones that help the body use energy efficiently and is also essential for brain development. Consumption of foods rich in iodine promotes an accelerated metabolism and supports cognitive function. Lack of iodine leads to fatigue, cold extremities, weight gain, and in severe cases, brain damage or thyroid goiter.
2. Laminaria contains fibrous compounds that absorb toxins and heavy metals in the digestive tract. This prevents the reabsorption of toxins in the bloodstream.
3. Organic kelp powder is also a rich source of calcium, magnesium, iron and potassium. Calcium and magnesium work together to help strengthen and maintain bones. Iron helps cells get oxygenated, and potassium regulates blood sugar and blood pressure.

Dried kelp tablets

Laminaria tablets is a food supplement used as an additional source of iodine and alginates (soluble dietary fiber). Kelp is produced in the form of capsules 530 mg (100 pieces in bottles).

The active substance is included in the capsules: brown seaweed powder.

Most often it is used:

• For gaining muscle mass or losing weight.
• As a mild laxative.
• For the prevention of cancer.
• Against hypothyroidism.

Method of administration and dosage:

• Laminaria is taken orally, preferably with meals. Recommended dosing regimen for adults: 3 times a day, 1 capsule.
• The duration of the course is 1 month.
• If necessary, after 2-3 months, the course can be repeated.

The use of kelp in cosmetology

Laminaria (useful properties and contraindications depend on the type of algae) contains at least 60 different minerals and elements, as well as 12 vitamins and 21 amino acids.

The impressive list of nutrients found in brown algae not only heals the human body, but also improves the appearance.

• A large number of body lotions, grooming and bath products contain kelp. It gives the skin elasticity.
• In anti-cellulite creams, algae draws out impurities from the skin and "tightens" the skin. This firming ability is also an advantage in eye patches or wrinkle creams. In masks, seaweed heals, hydrates, detoxifies and re-mineralizes the skin.

Kelp-based face masks

1. Mask for exfoliation

It will take:

• ¼ Art. l. kelp powder;
• ¼ Art. l. chlorella;
• 1 tbsp. l. natural yogurt or 1 tbsp. l. aloe vera gel;
• 2 tsp olive oil;
• 1 drop of essential oil. (It is best to use rose, jasmine, geranium, sandalwood, chamomile, carrot, lemon, lavender, or incense oil.)

Preparation:

• Add essential oil to kelp and chlorella powder, mix thoroughly until smooth. Then add yogurt / aloe vera gel and oil to the mixture.
• Apply to face and neck in circular motions for a gentle exfoliating effect. Wait 15 minutes and rinse with warm water, then apply a moisturizer.
• When using yoghurt, the mask is kept in the refrigerator for about a week. If using fresh aloe, refrigerate for about two days. An oil-based mask has a longer shelf life - about a few weeks.

2. Anti-aging mask

It will take:

• 1 tsp liquid honey (use not pasteurized);
• 1/2 tbsp. l. kelp powder;
• 1/4 Art. l. kaolin clay;
• 10-12 drops of tea tree essential oil;
• 1/4 tsp rosehip or sea buckthorn oils;
• 1/4 Art. l. aloe vera gel;

Preparation:

• Mix brown algae powder and clay in a container of 250 ml.
• Add essential oils and mix thoroughly. Then mix honey, aloe vera and stir again until smooth.
• Apply to damp skin for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off the mask with warm water using a damp sponge.

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Scrubs

Ingredients:

• ¼ Art. l. almond flour;
• ¼ cups of bentonite clay;
• ¼ Art. l. ground oats;
• ¼ Art. l. brown algae powder;
• essential oils if desired;

Preparation:

• Use a coffee grinder or blender to grind the almonds and oats. Oats may contain coarser particles.
• Mix all ingredients and refrigerate. The scrub can be applied to the skin 2-3 times a week.

Hair masks

1. Mask for hair growth

It will take:

• 100 ml olive oil
• 150 ml hair conditioner
• 1 tbsp. l. dry kelp powder

Preparation:

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Apply to damp, clean hair. Leave the mask on for 15-30 minutes. Rinse hair well.

2. Mask against dandruff

• 3 tbsp. l. brown algae powder;
• 3 tbsp. l. rassul clay;
• 10 drops of lemongrass essential oil;

Preparation:

• Mix all the ingredients and add a little water to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Apply to damp hair.
• Leave the mask for 40 minutes and rinse with warm water.

Laminaria for weight loss

Seaweed is rich in vitamins and minerals, completely in natural form. This nutrient base guarantees optimal body function. For example, if digestion is impaired, losing weight will be much more difficult.

Laminaria, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which are known to many, is one of the best natural sources of iodine. Iodine maintains thyroid health, so your metabolism will improve and function better - which is what you need for healthy weight loss.

Excess weight puts stress on the thyroid gland, and insufficient iodine in the body and in the daily diet leads to weight gain. Laminaria is best suited in this case, since with proper use, the amount of iodine necessary for correct operation will enter the body.

Kelp also contains alginate, a weight-loss-promoting substance. And doctors are currently looking for ways to add this ingredient to certain weight loss products. Laminaria does not immediately put the body in order, but it is a very effective way.

The seafood is also rich in fucoidans. These are molecules found exclusively in algae. They support the immune system and cell function. All these substances are actively used in the markets - as additives to synthetic substances that promise to instantly lose a few extra pounds.

Laminaria in sticks to stimulate labor

Another type of kelp is thin sticks of sterilized seaweed, about the size of a match. Sticks are inserted into the cervix. There, they expand slightly in a humid environment, stretching the cervix. After the procedure the next day, the cervix reaches its maximum dilatation.

Kelp sticks are capable of expanding the cervix overnight. In the early stages of pregnancy, the remedy is not required, but if the woman has been in the position for more than 5 months, laminar sticks should be used regularly for a safer and more painless delivery.

Most women feel mild cramps after kelp injection. If the seizures persist, you can drink mild pain relievers.

Laminaria for colds

Kelp can be used as an adjunct to mainstream treatment for colds. It has mild anti-inflammatory properties, so it can only help in the first stage of infection.

It is necessary to consume dry kelp 2-3 times a day before meals or after, preferably in the evening.

For the treatment of atherosclerosis

Thanks to the fucoidan found in brown algae, the product acts as an antioxidant.

This prevents dangerous oxidative damage as oxidative cholesterol is deposited in the arteries, which can lead to atherosclerosis, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and hypercholesterolemia.

With bronchitis

For bronchitis, fresh seaweed is preferable. Species such as nori and chasseurs will be useful here. You need to consume 250 g of fresh seaweed per day. The course lasts 2 months, it must be repeated after 3 months.

With osteochondrosis and gout

In this case, the use of fresh brown algae is optimal. You need to buy seafood called dals and chlorophyte. Mix these two ingredients and include in the diet, consuming 2 times a day. The course lasts 2 months, you can repeat it in six months.

With diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, dry kelp is indicated for use:

• Adults (from 12 years old) - 3 tbsp. l. dry algae per day, with meals.
• Children (up to 12 years old) - 2 tsp. dry algae per day, with meals.

Course - 3 months, repeat in a month.

With oncology

There is evidence that consuming seaweed can help improve cancer treatments. But this product does not completely cure cancer. However, it does improve overall outcome when combined with treatment.

Kelp should be included in the diet to prevent cancer, leukemia and radiation sickness... It contains biologically active substances and trace elements that are used to prevent disease.

Lutein, p-carotene and chlorophyll have an anti-mutagenic effect on the human body because they contain alginic acid. This acid selectively binds and removes heavy metal ions from the human body.

This affects the hematopoietic systems and the intestinal tract system, which are especially vulnerable due to radionuclides. This research has been scientifically proven by Russian, Japanese and Norwegian researchers.

For the treatment of the thyroid gland

Typically, the thyroid gland secretes hormones such as T3 and T4. For these hormones to work properly, the body must have enough iodine for regulation. If iodine is not enough, the hormonal glands will deteriorate and problems such as hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's disease will develop.

Kelp is an excellent solution as an alternative thyroid treatment. It should be taken dry, daily for 1 tbsp. l. along with the main treatment.

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With iron deficiency anemia

Most people diagnosed with anemia have iron deficiency, including vitamin B-12 deficiency, also known as pernicious anemia. Seaweed is a natural, not animal source of vitamin B-12 and is high in iron.

Antineoplastic collection

The antitumor collection includes the following types of seaweed:

• Boa.
• Kombu.
• Alaria.
• Wakame.
• Tongwid.
• Chlorophyte.
• Arame.
• Ecklonia.
• Macrocytis.
• Egeria.

These products can be consumed both dry and in regular form.

Application:

• Fresh kelp: buy the above types of algae, mix with each other, and include in the diet in an amount of 200-250 g.
• Dry kelp: as an option, dry a fresh product, since it will be very difficult to find them in dry form, consume 3 tbsp daily. l. 2 times a day.

Algal mud

Kelp mud is sold in pharmacies and care stores. Masks with healing mud are especially effective. Below is a recipe for one of them:

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp olive oil;
• 300 g of algal mud;
• 1 chicken egg yolk.

Application:

Mix all ingredients and apply the mixture to your face. Leave the mask for 20-25 minutes, then rinse.

Kelp baths

Baths with kelp are very beneficial for health, since it contains many useful components, consider the benefits:

• Detoxification of the body.
• Slimming.
• Slag removal.
• Mineralization and softening of the skin.
• Relief of muscle pain.

1. Bath with ginger

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp hydrogen peroxide.
• 3 tbsp. l. ground ginger
• ½ cup dry kelp

Preparation:

Add all the ingredients to a hot bath and sit for 20 minutes, then rinse the body.

2. Bath with clay

Ingredients:

• ½ cup bentonite clay
• cups of dry seaweed
• Choice of essential oil: mandarin, rose, cinnamon.

Preparation:

• First you need to dissolve the salt in hot water.
• Then there are 2 options: mix clay and algae and add to the water, stirring until all the lumps dissolve, or make a paste by adding a little water and spreading it all over the body. In this case, the paste must be applied in advance and allowed to dry for 5 minutes.
• Immerse yourself in the bath and sit for 20 minutes.
• The effect is remarkable - skin rejuvenation and tightening are noticeable after the first application.

Compresses with kelp

Kelp compresses are most often done for colds. Here the most suitable product will be nori kelp.

The recipe is as follows:

Ingredients:

• 300 g of dry kelp;
• warming cream;
• 1 tsp coconut oil;

Preparation:

Mix the components, apply to gauze and apply to the inflamed area. Keep for no more than 40 minutes. The procedure is done 3 times a day.

How to choose and store kelp

To distinguish and select seaweed, you need to pay attention to the labels.

The most preferred and more beneficial packages for health will have the following Latin names:

• bladderwrack (fucus),
• nori (classic kelp),
• Irish moss (sometimes referred to as carrageenan, the name of the extract)
• SuperPhycoDismutase (or SPD, the name of the French seaweed extract) or simply seaweed extract.

These products have practically no contraindications. Most of these sea herbs impart a silky texture to creams and act as natural thickeners.

Author: AngelinaA

Article design: Mila Friedan

Video about the benefits of kelp

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