Kelp Benefits Immunity and More

Kelp, or more commonly, seaweed, is found in kelp forests in the ocean where the water is shallow and clear. It is an algae that grows underwater and is famous for its ability to spread. Kelp grows 20 inches a day and can reach 200 feet long. It grows in water that is cooler than 68 degrees F.

Most kelp it made up of a body or thallus that are actually leaf-like structure called blades. Blades come from stipes which are long stem-like structures. The holdfast is a type of root that anchors the plant to the ocean floor. The American variety contains gas-filled bladders at the base of the blades that keep the leaves close to the surface.

Kelp is available in a dried, capsule, or powder form. It can be added to drinks or used as flavoring or as a salt substitute. Kelp can be added to soups, stir fries, stews, and cooked with beans or various types of grains.

Over 70 minerals and growth hormones, trace elements, enzymes, vitamins, and proteins are found in kelp, including potassium, iodine, magnesium, calcium, and iron. According to Wikipedia, 100 grams of kelp contains 9.6 grams of Carbohydrates, .6 grams of sugars, 1.3 grams of fiber, .6 grams of fat, 1.7 grams of protein, and from 3% to 45% of the daily requirement of another 13 vitamins and minerals.

Let's examine a few of the many health benefits of kelp. Kelp can increase energy in the body and help it fight disease. Kelp helps the body fight heart disease, some types of cancer, and it suppresses AIDS. It has helped improve the function of the liver and relieve the pain of arthritis.

Kelp helps control body weight because it stimulates metabolism. Those suffering from problems do to an inactive thyroid should eat kelp because of the iodine. Kelp also deals with problems of bowel gas, constipation, and poor digestion.

Kelp helps to lower cholesterol levels and to maintain mucous membranes. It kills the herpes virus and is even used to reduce hair loss. Kelp ash can be used in soap and glass production. Alginate, a carbohydrate coming from kelp, is used as a thickener for such things as ice cream, jelly, salad dressing, and toothpaste, and is used as an ingredient in exotic dog food.

Kelp is also used frequently in fertilizer and as such is known as vraic. Some types of kelp are also considered a delicacy in the far east.

A daily intake of kelp in capsule or sprinkled on food as powder will help regular the body?s systems and provide needed vitamins and minerals. You will be benefited from making kelp a regular part of your diet.

By: Susannah Singer

There are more kelp benefits to be considered. Visit More Than Alive, an internet store for bulk herbs and a proven source where you can get kelp powder and read more facts about many other herbs.

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