CNM S2 Seaweed

Question 1

Seaweeds are macroalgae that can be classified into which three major groups? Name an example of each.

Answer 1

• Red algae: Dulse, nori, laver.
• Brown algae: Kelp, bladderwrack, wakame.
• Green algae: Sea lettuce, spongeweed

Question 2

What are the energetic qualities of seaweed?

Answer 2

Cooling, moistens dryness.

Question 3

Name four of the wide range of vitamins and minerals that can be found in seaweed.

Answer 3

IVOCI AA (my prompt)

Iodine
Iron
Calcium
Vitamin B12 (nori)
Omega-3 fats
A range of amino acids.

Question 4

List 6 benefits and clinical applications of Seaweed

Answer 4

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory: Fucoxanthin, a carotenoid has powerful antioxidant effects. It also reduces the production of inflammatory proteins such as NF-kB and COX-2

Low thyroid function: The high iodine content is useful for the production of T3 and T4.
(Bladderwrack seaweed is rich in bioavailable iodine and other minerals and amino acids including tyrosine)

Healthy weight management: An easy way to boost vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. Fibre increases satiety. Fucoxanthin has been shown to upregulate expression of ‘mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), a key molecule in metabolic thermogenesis — decreasing fat accumulation.

Blood sugar control: Promotes better glycemic control. Enhancing the effects of insulin.

Elevated blood lipids: It is linked to reduced serum triglycerides and improved LDL:HDL ratio. The effects are thought to be due to the gel-forming fibre in seaweed, which can bind cholesterol in the intestinal lumen leading to increased clearance of cholesterol.

Digestion and GIT health: High in fibre; enhances growth of beneficial bacteria (supporting GI tight junctions) and supports bowel elimination. Nourishes inflamed digestive tract; ulcers, constipation, colitis.

Question 5

What would be a therapeutic dose of seaweed?

Answer 5

Aim for one tbsp per day

Question 6

What would be a caution with seaweed and what can you do about it?

Answer 6

Seaweed can accumulate toxic heavy metals including cadmium, mercury and lead. Use organic, clean sources.

Question 7

What is microalgae? Give an example.

Answer 7

Edible Microalgae (phytoplankton) are classified as mostly freshwater, single celled photosynthesising algae or bacteria, invisible to the naked eye:

Spirulina: Blue-green spiral shaped Cyanobacteria.
Chlorella: Single-celled fresh water green algae.

Question 8

What are the energetic qualities of Microalgae?

Answer 8

Cooling, moistens dryness

Question 9

Nutrients composition of Microalgae.

Answer 9

-Particularly high in chlorophyll, iron and 50-70% complete protein.