Nori is a versatile ingredient that can be used for a variety of purposes. There are many reasons why you should consume more of this sea-based superfood. The oceans offer a veritable source of nutritional sustenance, including edible seaweeds, which are vast and mostly unknown. Nori – yes, the stuff that keeps sushi together – is one of the most popular and nutrient-dense seaweeds.
Nori has one of the most diverse nutritional profiles of any food, containing numerous nutrients present in human blood! Seaweed is good in regulating and purifying our blood because its chemical composition is so similar to that of human blood plasma. Calcium, copper, magnesium, iron, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, selenium, zinc, and more are all found in Nori.
Nori can have up to ten times the calcium content of milk! On the other hand, it is chock-full of vitamins. It contains Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, as well as niacin, taurine, and folic acid. It also has a high quantity of vitamin C, which increases its considerable iron content absorption.
Does Nori sound like a superfood for you? Perhaps it’s time you learned a bit more about it! Read on to learn everything you need to know about adding Nori to your diet.
1. Helps Prevent Iodine Deficiency
If you don’t get enough iodine, your thyroid function can be hindered, making it more difficult for your body to burn fat. As a result, fatigue and weight gain may result. Because Nori is high in iodine, including it in your diet at least three times per week can help keep your thyroid in check. Furthermore, nori consumption may help lower cholesterol levels in your body.
2. Assist with Developing Resistance Against Infectious Agents
Vitamin C is found in 39 mg per 100 g of fresh nori seaweed or 65 percent of the daily required amount. Drying and toasting, on the other hand, drastically diminishes its shelf life. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that aids in the development of resistance to pathogenic agents and the scavenging of damaging oxygen-free radicals.
3. Helps Protect the Body Against Lung and Mouth Malignancies
Vitamin A is abundant in Nori and other red algae. Incredibly, 100 g of fresh, raw Nori contains 5,202 IU of vitamin A or 1734 percent of the daily required amount. Vitamin A is also necessary for keeping healthy mucosa and skin, as well as for night vision. Natural vegetables and fruits high in vitamin A and flavonoids have also been shown to protect the body against lung and mouth malignancies.
4. Might Have Anti-Cancer Effects.
Cancer is a hot topic in the news these days. Many investigations are being conducted to find a cure for this disease. Some of them suggest that consuming a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of cancer.
At this time, researchers have demonstrated that seaweed (like Nori) can help to reduce cancer risk by acting as an antioxidant. It has been demonstrated that it can suppress aberrant cell development by up to 95%. It’s because of the anticoagulant and antimutagenic properties that play a role in the metabolic system. Furthermore, as previously stated, the presence of vitamin C aids in the neutralization of free radical-caused cancer.
5. Potentially Prevents Neural Tube Abnormalities in Babies
Many B-complex vitamins, such as vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)-12 percent of RDA, riboflavin-34 percent of RDA, folates-39 percent of RDA, thiamin, and niacin, are abundant in laver (red algae). Dietary folates aid in preventing neural tube abnormalities in babies.
6. Contains Tyrosine and Iodine, Which Support Thyroid Function
Hormones produced by the thyroid gland aid in the regulation of growth, energy generation, reproduction, and the healing of damaged cells in your body. Iodine is needed by your thyroid to produce hormones. If you don’t get enough iodine, you may develop symptoms, including weight gain, lethargy, or neck swelling over time.
Seaweed contains a high concentration of iodine and the amino acid tyrosine, which are necessary for the thyroid gland to function effectively.
7. Contains Abundant Vitamins and Minerals
Each variety of seaweed has different nutrients. Adding dried seaweed to your meals not only adds taste, texture, and flavor but is also a simple method of increasing your vitamin and mineral consumption.
Seaweed contains modest amounts of Vitamins A, C, E, and K, folate, zinc, salt, calcium, and magnesium.
All of the essential amino acids are available in the protein found in some seaweeds, such as spirulina and chlorella. As a result, seaweed can assist you in obtaining a complete variety of amino acids.
Iodine, iron, and calcium are all found in seaweed. Vitamin B12 can be found in abundance in some kinds. There are lots of omega-3 fatty acids present as well.
8. Holds a Wide Range of Antioxidants
Antioxidants can make free radicals, which are unstable molecules in your body, less reactive; as a result, they are less likely to harm your cells.
Antioxidants found in seaweed include vitamins A, C, and E and carotenoids and flavonoids. They all protect your cells from oxidative stress.
9. It’s High in Fiber and Polysaccharides, Which Helps with Gut Health
Gut bacteria play a crucial part in your overall health. Bacteria cells are predicted to outnumber human cells in your body.
Seaweed is high in fiber, which has been linked to improved intestinal health. Seaweed includes both fiber and carbohydrates, which can be used as food by the microorganisms in your gut. This fiber can also help to nourish your gut by promoting the growth of “healthy” bacteria.
10. May Assist in Losing Weight
Seaweed is high in fiber, which is calorie-free. Seaweed’s fiber may also help to decrease stomach emptying. This keeps you fuller for longer and helps you avoid hunger cravings.
Seaweed is also thought to have anti-obesity properties. Several studies suggest that fucoxanthin, a chemical found in seaweed, may aid in body fat reduction.
Seaweed may aid weight loss due to its low-calorie content, filling fiber, and fucoxanthin, which leads to a faster metabolism.
11. Might Reduce the Risk of Heart Diseases
The main cause of death in the world is heart disease.
High cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and being physically sedentary or overweight are all risk factors. Surprisingly, seaweed may aid in the reduction of blood cholesterol levels in your body.
Excessive blood clotting can potentially cause heart disease. Fucans, a type of carbohydrate found in seaweed, may aid in blood clotting prevention.
12. Improves Hair Health
Nori is also helpful in maintaining hair health. This sea vegetable is beneficial to hair care. Similarly, it is due to the presence of vitamin C that hair damage is prevented. It also slows down the graying process by acting as an antioxidant. Nori also contains iron, which helps to prevent hair loss. Nori is, without a doubt, a fantastic dish that will lead you to greater heights.
13. Can Help Improve Muscle Functions
Proteins are made up of amino acids, which are the basic building components of muscle. The presence of essential amino acids has a favorable impact on human health. Alanine, aspartic acid, glycine, glutamic acid, lysine, arginine, leucine, histidine, and isoleucine are among the major amino acids found in Nori.
The amino acids found in foods like nori do play an important part in keeping the body healthy. Furthermore, amino acids are said to help promote muscular function, burn more fat, and minimize tiredness. Then, if you want to build muscle, attempt to exercise regularly and eat Nori as directed.
14. Aids in the Proper Absorption of Calcium
When it comes to maintaining excellent bone health, people are more inclined to consume dairy products such as milk to meet their calcium requirements. However, calcium isn’t simply found in milk; it’s also found in a variety of other foods. Then there’s Nori, which is another alternative. A moderate intake of Nori will aid in the proper absorption of calcium and other minerals. If you desire strong bones and teeth, try eating Nori.
15. Can Enhance Mental Performance
Nori is a good meal to eat if you want to improve your brain performance. It’s because of the contribution of omega-3 fatty acids. As a result, it strengthens the neurological system and promotes brain health. You can also eat salmon, tuna, and canned sardines to meet your omega-3 fatty acid requirements.
All things considered
Seaweed (like nori) is an excellent complement to any diet. There are numerous interesting and diverse types that are low in calories yet high in nutrients. It also has a considerable quantity of fiber, healthy fats, and plant components that are beneficial to practically everyone’s health.
Because Nori seaweed is a marine product, it contains greater levels of minerals, trace elements, and heavy metals. The mineral concentration of dried Nori is lower than that of fresh, wet-harvest seaweeds. In Nori, the iodine level in dried sheets can range from 16 to 20 g/g. For the same reason, people with thyroid problems (thyrotoxicosis or excessive thyroxin hormone production in the body) should avoid overeating seaweed.
This article was co-authored by our team of writers and editors who share one thing in common: their passion for food and drinks!
JC Franco
JC Franco works as a New York-based editor at Foodrinke, driven by his lifelong love for food. His culinary journey began in childhood, as he eagerly assisted his mother with her local sandwich and bakery business, relishing every opportunity to sample her creations. Known among family and friends as an easy eater, JC has a particular affinity for Chinese, Italian, Mexican, and Peruvian cuisine. At Foodrinke, he channels his passion for food into his work, sharing his enthusiasm and knowledge with readers.