Seaweed (Eucheuma Cottonii) and Its Benefits

Seaweed one of the important marine living resources could be termed as the futuristically promising plants. These plants have been a source of food, feed and medicine in the orient as well as in the west since ancient times. Scientifically known as Eucheuma Cottonii is an edible species of Pacific red seaweed obtained from Malaysian North Borneo water; are typically found below the low tide mark to the upper subtidal zone of a reef, growing on sand to rocky seafloor areas along a coral reef, whether water movement is slow to moderate. Eucheuma or in a layman term seaweed is also called Sea Bird's Nest.

Seaweeds are classified into three divisions, Rhodophyta (red algae), Chlorophyta (green algae) and Phaeophyta (brown algae). Seaweed is a a good source of nutrients; aside from being a good source of minerals it is also a good source of amino acids. These plants have all minerals which are available in the food humans eat. They are rich in minerals like iron, B-vitamin folate, magnesium, calcium and many others. The seaweeds are used by some people in the preparation of soup, side dishes and even salads.

Consuming seaweed helps in weight management. The seaweed is a good food to take when you want to take control of your weight. This is because the seaweed has only up to 20 calories per serving and has no fat. Therefore there will be no fat deposition. It is also high in fiber. This is a good factor as it will prevent eating junk and snacking.

Seaweed can be a good substitute for salt, which could be used in processed foods and also snacks instead of salt. Its advantages because it helps reduce the chances of someone developing high blood pressure.

Seaweed is believed to balance blood sugar. It has fiber which is soluble and hence can slow down the rate of digestion and absorption. This will help balance the blood sugar.The soluble fiber found in seaweed is good for digestion. Fiber prevents constipation and facilitates in effective bowels movements.

Good read Healing Power of Malaysian Seaweed, Journal of Medicinal Plants Research Vol. 5(27), pp. 6373-6380, 23 November, 2011, Seaweed Wikipedia, Seaweed Farming

Dried Seaweed

Fruit Cocktail with Eucheuma Cottonii (Seaweed)