You know that apples are awesome and veggies are virtuous. But did you know that seaweed just might be one of nature's healthiest snacks? It might even help you lose weight, according to researchers at Newcastle University. They discovered that it reduces fat digestion by more than 75 percent, and are experimenting with adding seaweed fiber to bread to see if they can cook up foods to help you eat and lose. In the interim, however, seaweed ranks as a healthy snack, according to health experts. Learn more about how to savor this salty vegetable from the ocean.
Wakame, which has a salty-sweet test, contains calcium and magnesium, nutritionist Gilliam McKeith told Oprah magazine. In addition, it acts as a diuretic and improves insulin resistance. In addition, it burns fatty tissue. It's available from Eden Foods. Another option, Nori, contains protein and fiber, as well as vitamins C and B12. It's frequently used to make sushi and is available at many health food stores as well as some conventional grocery stores. Kombu contains iodine, magnesium, and a wide range of antioxidants, according to the Dasman Diabetes Institute. Try adding a strip of Kombu to chicken broth and enjoy with raw veggies for a healthy snack.
Got time to experiment in the kitchen to make some super seaweed snacks? Mao Shing Ni, author of Secrets of Longevity, suggests making your own sushi. Cover a sheet of nori with brown rice, topping with shredded carrots, thinly sliced avocado, and other raw veggies. Dip in sesame oil. A fan of kombu, which can boost your metabolism due to its high iodine content, Mao suggests making your own dashi stock by heating 4 cups of water over low heat and adding in 8 inches of kombu. Simmer, then strain the stock.
As news of seaweed's benefits spread, more companies are creating seaweed-based snacks. One example: SeaSnax makes a roasted snack that's vegan. Containing only three ingredients (seaweed, olive oil, and sea salt), these treats are made of Nori. My personal favorite: Annie Chun's Sesame Seaweed Snacks. These crunchy sheets have helped me surrender my potato chips habit and are ideal paired with a fresh fruit for that mid-afternoon "gotta have a snack" craving.