Unleashing the Superpowers of Seaweed: How Marine Algae Can Help Fight Chronic Diseases

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For thousands of years, humans have consumed seaweed, a type of marine algae.
Seaweed has gained popularity as a superfood in recent years due to its high nutrient content and potential health benefits.

Seaweed contains several bioactive compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, such as polysaccharides, phlorotannins, fucoxanthin, and other polyphenols. In this article, we will discuss how seaweed helps in fighting chronic diseases.

Reduces inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response of the body’s immune system to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of several chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Seaweed contains bioactive compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

For example, polysaccharides found in brown seaweed have been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Phlorotannins found in brown seaweed have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that phlorotannin extracts from brown seaweed reduced inflammation in human cells.

Reduces oxidative stress

Oxidative stress is a condition that occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body’s ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. Oxidative stress can contribute to the development of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Seaweed contains bioactive compounds that have been shown to have antioxidant properties and can help reduce oxidative stress.

Fucoxanthin, a carotenoid found in brown seaweed, has been shown to have antioxidant properties.

A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that fucoxanthin reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in human cells. Other polyphenols found in seaweed, such as phlorotannins and catechins, have also been shown to have antioxidant properties.

Reduces blood pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Seaweed contains bioactive compounds that have been shown to have antihypertensive effects, meaning they can help lower blood pressure. For example, a study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that a diet containing seaweed reduced blood pressure in rats.

Polysaccharides found in brown seaweed have also been shown to have antihypertensive effects. A study published in the journal Hypertension Research found that polysaccharides from brown seaweed reduced blood pressure in rats with high blood pressure.

Reduces cholesterol levels

High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease. Seaweed contains bioactive compounds that have been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels. For example, a study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that a diet containing seaweed reduced cholesterol levels in rats.

Phlorotannins found in brown seaweed have also been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that phlorotannin extracts from brown seaweed reduced cholesterol levels in rats.

Reduces the risk of cancer

Several studies have suggested that seaweed may have anti-cancer properties. For example, a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that fucoidan, a polysaccharide found in brown seaweed, inhibited the growth of cancer cells in the laboratory.

Fucoxanthin, a carotenoid found in brown seaweed, has also been shown to have anti-cancer properties. A study published in the journal Marine Drugs found that fucoxanthin inhibited the growth of cancer cells in the laboratory.

Seakura is an eco-friendly company dedicated to growing seaweed on-land. Seakura has developed a unique land-based, super seaweed technology that replaces traditional seaweed cultivation methods. To check out our selection of food products, please visit www.seakura.ca

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