8X WHY WE SHOULD EAT

SEAWEED

In the supermarket, you increasingly find it: seaweed in all shapes and sizes. And now that the government has also announced that we should eat more of this sea vegetable, it's time for some more information about this healthy snack. Eating seaweed not only has many benefits for our health but also for the health of our planet. So what are these benefits and how can we eat more seaweed?

1. Iron

All types of seaweed contain more iron than there is in meat. Did you know that a large part of us women has a deficiency of this important mineral? Something to do with our cycle and all, always the victim... If you get too little iron for a long time, this can eventually lead to anemia..

2. Proteins

Especially Nori and brown seaweeds like Wakame and kelp are rich in easily digestible proteins, particularly the dried variety. Here you might cheer and think: sushiiii. Yes, girlfriend, especially if you, like me, are in the gym six days a week, you really need those proteins to help your muscles recover. But they also provide a longer feeling of satiety, making it easier for you to maintain your weight.

3. Iodine

Especially if you, like me, are not a bread eater, it's important to get the mineral iodine in another way. The good news is that seaweed is rich in iodine, especially kelp.

4. Calcium

According to zeewierwijzer.nl, the brown seaweed types Arame and Wakame contain ten times as much calcium as there is in milk. And calcium is important for many processes in your body. It not only ensures strong bones but also a well-functioning muscle and nervous system. Calcium also plays a role in your hormone metabolism.

5. Fiber

The fibers in seaweed ensure that the carbohydrates in food are absorbed more slowly into your blood. Aside from the fact that it is better for your pancreas (which has to produce insulin to absorb sugars into your cells), this way you maintain a ‘full’ feeling longer and it's better for your bikini body.

6. Vitamin B1

Like in legumes, seaweed contains vitamin B1, which helps in the burning of carbohydrates, giving us energy. Additionally, this vitamin helps in the functioning of a healthy heart.

7. Vitamin B12

Seaweed is one of the few plant-based sources of vitamin B12, and on average, 10% of the Dutch population has a deficiency of it. This leads to anemia, fatigue, shortness of breath, and a lack of appetite.

8. Delicious

Yes, and it's just really tasty. And you can do all sorts of things with it. Soon I'll share my favorite recipe with you. So just a little more patience...

And uhhh, did you know that seaweed pasta also exists? Just stir-fry it in the pan with some garlic, onion, a chili pepper, and fried shrimp. Pasta has never been this healthy.