The
re has been a strong tradition in the use of seaweeds worldwide, not only as delicacy but also as a nutraceutical. Notable are the Japanese foods of which “Nori” is the most popular or AKA Sushi/Maki wrapper. In china kelp is also very common. Scotland, Irland and Brittany (Celtic areas) also have a significant consumption of seaweeds.
Research have indicated that seaweeds are a rich source of antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, and the vitamins B1 and B12. Basically containing iodine in significant amounts as well as chromium and zinc in trace amounts. These provide the preventive nutrition for iodine deficiency (against goiter) as well as immune boosters.
What is now interesting is that kelp may be helpful in breast cancer cases; it was reported that kelp lowers estrogens in laboratory animal experiments. Estrogens being a risk factor in breast cancer progression, kelp has the potetial to keep cases in remission.
It is generally believed that organisms in the sea which survived for millions of years have the most potent protector against invading organisms and even cancer.
Photo from: http://www.geocities.com/panuwatsuppakul/Giant_Kelp_Seaweed_macrocystis_pyrifera.jpg
