This nutritious sea moss may offer a range of benefits for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle as they age.
In this article, we will explore purple sea moss benefits for healthy aging.
Purple Sea Moss Explained
Purple sea moss is a type of seaweed that grows along the rocky coasts of the Atlantic Ocean. It earns the name “purple” from its’ reddish-purple color.
For centuries, it was used as a food source and in traditional medicine. Today, it is increasingly popular as a dietary supplement and food ingredient.
Many people incorporate it into their diets for its’ potential health benefits.
How is it different from regular sea moss?
Regular sea moss is seaweed of various types that are used as food or supplements.
The regular variety may include other species of seaweed, which are different from Chondrus crispus, the type of seaweed that is specifically known as purple sea moss.
While all types of sea moss contain similar minerals and vitamins, there may be some differences in their nutrient profiles and potential health benefits.
Benefits
This nutrient dense moss is a source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. It also contains iodine, which is important for thyroid health.
In recent years, this nutrient dense seaweed has gained popularity as a Superfood due to its’ anti-inflammatory properties.
There is no evidence to suggest that one type of sea moss is healthier than another.
However, some individuals prefer the purple variety due to its’ potential anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Potential Benefits for Healthy Aging
- May improve digestion
- May promote healthy skin and hair
- May boost immunity
- May support thyroid health
Safety
It is generally considered safe and nutritious, however, there are some concerns people should be aware of.
Consuming too much can lead to iodine toxicity, which can cause thyroid problems. You should be especially cautious with this particular supplement if you take medications for your thyroid.
It also contains carrageenan, a food additive used to thicken and stabilize products.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally recognizes Carrageenan as safe.
However, some studies suggest that it may have negative health effects, such as causing inflammation in the gut and contributing to the development of intestinal disease.
Dosage
No standard recommended dose exists. Sea moss may contain different concentrations of nutrients depending on the source and preparation method.
If you are planning to consume purple sea moss as a dietary supplement, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Recommendations to Ensure Safety
Be sure to purchase dietary supplements from a reputable source.
Look for supplements that have been certified by third-party organizations such as NSF International, United States Pharmacopeia (USP), or ConsumerLab.com.
You should avoid purple sea moss if you are allergic to seaweed.
In addition, always consult a healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplement.
Evidence for Purple Sea Moss Benefits
Scientific research on the specific health benefits of purple sea moss is limited.
More studies are available on the health benefits of seaweed and algae. However, since sea moss grows in a similar environment, it may provide similar advantages to that of seaweed.
Adding Purple Sea Moss to your Diet
Below are three ways you can add this sea moss to your diet:
- Gel: soaked and blended into a gel that can be added to smoothies, sauces, and desserts.
- Powder: dried and ground into a powder that can be added to drinks or used as a supplement. The powder can be mixed with water, juice, and smoothies.
- Capsules: Supplements containing an extract come in capsule form, which can be taken as a daily supplement.
Takeaways
Purple sea moss is a type of seaweed that grows along the rocky coasts of the Atlantic Ocean. It earns the name “purple” from its’ reddish-purple color.
This moss is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. It also contains iodine, which is important for thyroid health.
Scientific research on the health benefits of purple sea moss is limited. Potential healthy aging benefits are related to its’ anti-inflammatory benefits.
You should speak to your healthcare provider before incorporating this supplement into your wellness routine!
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Kathryn is a Registered Dietitian and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She is also Certified through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Weight Management.