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  • Seaweed in general is highly alkalizing, which makes it invaluable to balance the effects of an overly acidic diet of meat, grains and dairy products.
  • Seaweed is said to have the ability to rid the body of metals and radioactive residue, so it's good to have after being exposed to radiation from X-rays or air travel.
  • A chemical in seaweed called sodium alginate prevents the absorption of radioactive strontium 90. Strontium 90 is a byproduct of nuclear explosions, nuclear power and weapons facilities and has been linked to a number of ailments, including cancer and leukemia, bone cancer and Hodgkin's disease. One study has shown that alginate supplements can reduce strontium 90 absorption by as much as 83 percent. Sodium alginate helps to prevent the absorption of newly ingested heavy metals from environmental pollution, cookware, dental materials and more.
  • All seaweed contains iodine, which is necessary for thyroid function. The thyroid controls metabolism, so seaweed can help with weight issues, which are often the result of an underactive thyroid.
  • Seaweed is one of the most mineral-rich foods on the planet, containing virtually all the minerals found in the ocean, which are the same minerals in human blood. They're also rich sources of calcium, magnesium, B vitamins, vitamin K and fiber. Sea vegetables, particularly dulse, are also high in iron, which makes it an excellent blood tonic.
  • Because of its magnesium content, seaweed can help restore normal sleep patterns and can be beneficial for women who may be experiencing sleep disruption during menopause.
  • Sea vegetables contain phytonutrients called lingans, plant compounds that have anti-carcinogenic properties and can inhibit tumor growth.
  • Wakame and kombu have a mucilaginous quality and a slightly bitter taste, which makes them a good tonic for the liver and intestines and good for relieving constipation.
  • Sea vegetables are a good natural source of sea salt and can be used in place of salt in some dishes.

Some Seaweed Warnings
  • Wakame acts as a blood thinner, so anyone who is taking medication to thin the blood would be best to avoid it.
  • Because of its ability to bind with heavy metals and expel them from the body, if the seaweed comes from contaminated waters, it may contain traces of heavy metals such as arsenic and mercury. However, the levels in most seaweed are generally thought to be safe for human consumption.
  • If a person has a hyperactive thyroid, it may be best to avoid eating seaweed.

For optimum health and vitality, I highly recommend making these jewels from the sea a part of your daily diet. There are so many creative ways to integrate them in dishes or serve them up as side dishes—for now, I hope you enjoy this lovely Sweet Potato and Arame Salad, which brings East and West and sweet and savory together in the most delicious way!

With love,
Aine


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