Whether it’s wrapped around your sushi rolls, tossed in your salads, or stashed in your desk drawer in the form of chips, chances are seaweed is a staple in your diet. And it’s a great addition – bursting with nutrients (like iodine) and subtly salty, it ticks a lot of boxes.
Now, we want to introduce you to Mozuku Seaweed, a stringy seaweed that’s making waves in the health world. Have you heard of Okinawa, the Japanese island that’s home to the world’s longest-living people? Well, Mozuku Seaweed is harvested in the ocean off that very same island, so all those centenarians have been munching on it for years; and we've discovered it hidden in some tasty, unassuming snacks!
We’re about to get a bit science-y, but stay with us. Mozuku seaweed is rich in fucoidan, a sulphated polysaccharide that contains galactose, glucoronic acid and xylose. In plain English, it’s an antimicrobial substance that helps to cleanse the intestines and enhance immunity. It’s so effective, in fact, that research carried out by the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center found that consuming fucoidan may block cancer cells from developing and growing. Incredible, huh? Fucoidan also attaches itself to the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers, so it’s great if you ever suffer from stomach issues. At a more basic level, it’s been proven to assist in preventing allergies and protecting the body from the effects of radiation. In a nutshell, it helps to balance everything out, which is a pretty solid reason to add it to your diet, stat.
Mozuku seaweed is a good source of insoluble dietary fibre, meaning it’ll fill you up without making you feel uncomfortably full and bloated. In other words, it’s gentle on the stomach. Along with this, fibre supports the intestines and stimulates the digestive tract, helping the body to flush out excess waste. Yes, please! While we’re on the subject of nutrients, mozuku seaweed is also loaded with antioxidants, magnesium and amino acids to enhance overall wellbeing.
The seaweed star is rich in vitamin K, which is essential for blood health. In particular, it plays a huge role in regulating blood clotting, in turn reducing blood cholesterol and boosting circulation. It’s often prescribed to those coming off blood-thinning medications. Vitamin K is also brilliant for our bones – it transports calcium around the body, which can help to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. (Fun fact: This vitamin is found in other Japanese goodies, like miso and natto!).
If you’re struggling to lose belly fat, try eating mozuku seaweed on the reg. It’s rich in fucoxanthin, a carotenoid that works to burn the fatty tissue around the internal organs – aka that pooch around your stomach you can’t seem to get rid of. The fancy term for this is “visceral fat”, and the way to reduce it is by revving your metabolism – something fucoxanthin can speed up. Oh, and Mozuku seaweed clocks in at just 4 calories per 100 grams.
This type of seaweed has a light, tangy taste, and is pretty versatile. It can be consumed raw and cooked, and is often served with vinegar (as an appetiser or palate cleanser), or in soups and salads.
Personally, we’re loving Venerdi’s Paleo Crackers in Moroccan Spice, because they combine the benefits of Mozuku Seaweed with a whole bunch of nutrient-dense superfoods! The crackers are grain-free and packed with fibre, protein, and omega-3. They have a slightly spicy flavour, making them perfect to eat on their own… But even better with toppings like avocado and smoked salmon.
Have you tried mozuku seaweed before?