Itz Holistically Wholesome

Funny story: growing up in the Caribbean, I have seen and heard a lot about sea moss, or Irish moss as we popularly call it there. So basically, sea moss has been a part of my life for many years. Interestingly, I have never fancied it then and thought it to be something for men because I mostly saw them drinking it as they believed it would give them stamina (sexual endurance). Back then, they used sea moss to make punch/shake “shake or punch.” I cannot remember if I had ever tasted it; besides, I am a woman, and as I said, Jamaican men loved it.

Several years ago, after uncovering the health benefits of sea moss and several ways to consume it, I added it to my diet. I add it to my smoothies, shakes, pancakes, cakes, etc. My supply never ran because my sister would top me up every time she visited from Jamaica. I even give it to my children as well. I even believe that consuming sea moss throughout my pregnancy contributed to me delivering a 9lbs 10-ounce baby and experiencing zero blood loss. Now, that’s just my opinion, okay! As for my OBGYN, she was shocked and said that she had never experienced this in her years of practice.

In recent times, sea moss has garnered much popularity, and it seems like everyone is talking about its excellent health benefits, from Tiktokers, celebrities, bloggers, alternative medicine gurus, and countless other online and offline sources and individuals. Sea moss is a vegan, gluten-free source of many nutrients. Chondrus crispus, commonly called Irish moss or carrageen moss, is a species of red algae that grows abundantly along the rocky parts of the Atlantic coasts of Europe and North America. This edible sea plant comes in various colors: red, brown, yellow, green, black, and purple. It is a wildcrafted plant collected from its natural wild habitat (ocean/sea). By the way, wildcrafted sea moss is the most nutrient-dense. 

So, in case you’ve never about sea moss, let’s talk about a few of its health benefits:

1. Rich in minerals and vitamins: Sea Moss contains 92 of the 102 essential minerals and vitamins our body needs. It is rich in essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium, iron, selenium, phosphorus, zinc, and iodine; vitamins A & C; antioxidants; Omega-3 fatty acids; protein; and dietary fiber.
2. It may promote weight loss: Since sea moss has a high fiber content, consuming it will help you feel fuller for extended periods and avoid overeating.
3.  It is heart-healthy: Sea moss helps regulate blood pressure and keep the heart functioning properly. Sea moss also contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
4.  It may boost your immune system: Sea moss is a good source of vitamins A, C, and E, which can help our immune system, and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of infection.
5.  Effective for Fighting Prostate Enlargement: The minerals in sea moss can help fight prostate enlargement. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
6. Promotes Healthy Skin: Sea moss is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which promote healthy skin and reduce the risk of acne and other skin conditions.
7. It can promote hair growth and health: Because sea moss is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, some believe it can encourage hair growth and improve hair health. The rich minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants can nourish the hair and scalp. It is also a natural conditioner to help soften and moisturize the hair, reducing breakage and improving its texture. The amino acids and proteins in sea moss help to strengthen hair and reduce breakage. The proteins in sea moss can also help repair damaged hair and improve its texture, and the anti-inflammatory properties help soothe dry or itchy scalps and reduce dandruff.
8. It supports gut health: “Sea moss contains alginate, which can promote gut health by binding to toxins and bad bacteria in the gut and preventing them from being absorbed by the body.” Its fiber content helps to promote healthy gut bacteria and prevent constipation.

In all things, we must remember to be temperate. The recommended daily amount is 1-2 tablespoons. Since it is high in iodine, ensure you are not getting more than you need in combination with your other meals for the day. If you are ill or on medication, please consult your healthcare provider before consuming sea moss

God bless.