(NaturalNews) Kelp, which is sometimes referenced as brown algae, is a sensational herb that comes from the sea. It is literally loaded with an extensive amount of trace minerals and vitamins. It's probably safe to say that no other seaweeds provide the same impressive quantities of various essential nutrients. Interestingly, plants coming from the sea have retained their high nutritional value through time. The same cannot necessarily be said of land vegetables and fruits which continuously face the consequences of ongoing soil erosion and pollution.
Kelp is strongly filled with iodine, protein, fiber and sodium alginate, a substance known to help remove radioactive elements from the organism. Since keeping decent iodine levels does play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy thyroid gland, the regular consumption of kelp is definitely something to be encouraged in others. It is also believed that seaweed may empower the digestive system or even act as a blood purifier.
Kelp is a natural diuretic and besides helping to get rid of excess water, it can be relied upon to remove accumulated toxins from the body. The plant has also long been used to strengthen nails and even encourage hair growth, or at the very least help reduce split ends and breakages. Some scientists now believe that kelp is on par with other known superfoods after research has shown its remarkable weight loss and anti-aging properties.
Research shows that kelp is an anti-aging product that promotes weight loss
Researchers at the University of Newcastle studied the effects created by kelp's fibers when consumed. They immediately noted a considerable reduction in fat digestion and absorption, especially when compared to most other weight loss treatments on the market. Knowing that iodine plays an essential role in combining with tyrosine in order to regulate various physiological functions, the general consensus is that kelp, a great source of iodine, directly helps the thyroid gland to properly normalize metabolism and in turn encourage weight loss.
In 2009, Japanese scientists experimented on obese mice induced by a high-fat diet. The goal was to find out how rats would react to being given tororokombu, a traditional Japanese food made from kelp. They quickly realized that kelp was responsible for lowering triglyceride levels.
Back in 2008, another study showed that the kind of iodine found in kelp actively helps remove from the blood cells, the ravaging free radicals known to unfortunately stimulate the aging process.
Kelp's magnesium, iron, calcium and potassium contents can be quite beneficial to women during their monthly cycles, pregnancies and lactation periods. These minerals also play a role in fighting off infections, notably during the flu, cold or allergy seasons. The iron combined with magnesium also helps maintain a healthy bloodstream and overall homeostasis.