Hi there, everyone! I’m here today to talk about my favorite seaweed kelp and all it’s wonderful health benefits! I discovered kelp while working at a health food store in my teens. All the herbs and vitamin supplements were organized alphabetically on high shelves, and the kelp was all the way on the bottom shelf often overlooked.
I loved working at such a place! There was every sort of herb, vitamin, natural soaps, lotions, groceries, and therapies like salt, sauna, and cryotherapy! I had suffered a lot of acid reflux and digestive issues as a teen, and I was seeking something natural to help. I had tried gummies, essential oils, tea’s, herbs, and even cutting out wheat and dairy. Cutting out certain foods seemed to help, but even then it would sometimes come back.
My Mom go into a smoothie craze for a season and brought home a green seaweed called kelp. As soon as I saw the greenish looking powder lying there on the counter, I was instantly curious! I picked it up and started reading the nutrition label and how much and how often to use. I started adding 1 teaspoon everyday to my shakes. I actually liked the deep green taste to this kelp, and grew to enjoy it! It wasn’t long before I noticed a difference in how I was feeling….I rarely had acid reflux now, and I was digesting better. I knew kelp would be a new staple in my kitchen!
So why had the kelp helped me so much? What health benefits does kelp truly have to offer? Let’s uncover some of this mystery together! I learned from textbooks that kelp is very popular among Asian cultures, and many believe contributes to their lack of diseases and longevity. Kelp is an anti~inflammatory. Inflammation is the root of most disease including: cancer, diabetes, arthritis, IBS, etc….. Kelp also helps protect against cancer by combatting oxidative stress. It is a very high source of iodine, which can really help thyroid issues, and hypothyroidism. It is a good source of some minerals, helping promote strong bones and balance blood sugar levels. Stabilizing our blood sugar levels can really do so much for our health including: hormones, and keeping up a healthy weight.
Kelp can be used as a salt substitute, noodles, as texture in salads, or to add flavor to recipes as well as health benefits! My favorite way to use kelp is by adding it to smoothies, salads, soups, and nut butter energy balls!
~God bless your soul, and keep up the good health!