Want To Transform Your Outdoor Space into a Calming, Boho-Chic Escape (Um, Yes)?

However, one particular ingredient may stand out: sea moss.

It appears the algae has really grown on the wellness world (punveryintended).

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But, uh, what exactly is it?

And is it worth the hype (or the big bucks)?

What is sea moss?

woman lounging in boho outdoor furniture

registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of Amy Gorin Nutrition

The cell wall of sea moss contains carrageenan, andC.

crispusis the original source of this commercially used thickener and gelling agent widely used in the food industry.

This food additive is produced by mixing seaweed extract with alkaline substances.

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Now the seaweed itselfnot its extractis making a splash.

Consumers of sea moss boast of benefits ranging from immune support to mood and emotional enhancement, Richard explains.

We have questionsa lot of questionsand are sure you do, too.

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3 potential sea moss health benefits

1.

Nutritionally speaking, however, there are some perks.

Some dietitians are particularly impressed by its potential for promoting gut health.

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registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of Amy Gorin Nutrition

For context, theres a little overone gram of fiber per 100-gram servingof sea moss.

Its also a good source of iodine.

Two tablespoons of sea moss provides roughly five milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids.

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The recommended intake of omega-3 is 250-300 milligrams a day for healthy adults, Richards says.

Sea moss is not the most efficient way for vegan dieters to take in omega-3s, she adds.

Richards also recommends flax and chia seeds.

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A serving of flaxseed provides nearly seven grams (7,000 milligrams), she says.

What are the side effects of taking sea moss?

The nutritional breakdown of sea moss changes based on where they grow, too.

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Whats the best way to consume sea moss?

If you feel inspired, see to it to try some of our favoritesea moss gel smoothie recipes.

Whats the difference between sea moss and spirulina?

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No, were not being cheeky by just pointing out their colors.

As with plants, different algae provide different benefits and nutritional make-ups, says Gorin.

However, some benefits are shared.

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Is it safe to eat sea moss every day?

As such, its wise to research the product for safety and efficacy before buying and consuming it.

If you do buy it raw, youll want to take proper steps to verify youre eating it safely.

Raw sea moss needs to be washed, soaked, and blended, Gorin notes.

Volume:16-ounce jar

Ingredients:Wild-harvested Caribbean sea moss and reverse osmosis water.

Its also made with real coconut for a satisfying flavor, Manaker says.

Life Extension Sea Iodine $5.00

Many people take sea moss for a boost of iodine.

Plus, it also provides fucoidan, a polysaccharide that has anti-inflammatory effects, Manaker says.

Bottom line

Basically, sea moss has some potential health benefits, but its not super well-studied.

So keep that in mind and dont expect any outright miracles if you decide to try it.

Liu, Jinghua et al.

14 Aug. 2015, doi:10.1186/s12906-015-0802-5

David, Shlomit et al.

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