Health benefits of Irish Sea Moss

Irish Sea Moss contains different iodine compounds that your thyroid needs to function healthily. One of these compounds is DI-Iodothyronine, which is commonly used to treat thyroid disorders as it stimulates the TR-beta receptor for thyroid hormones and thus increases energy expenditure (1). Furthermore, it also contains high amounts of concentrated iodine, which your thyroid uses to make hormones that regulate your metabolism, digestion and mood (2).

Irish Sea Moss contains B vitamins that can help boost energy levels. It does this in a number of ways; it contains Riboflavin (B2) which is needed to break down protein, carbs and fats (3). It also contains Folate (B9) which is required to form DNA and other genetic material.

Irish Sea Moss is packed with potassium iodide, which is great for dissolving troublesome phlegm in clogged airways (4). It also rich in amino acids, vitamin C, antioxidants, as well as a host of antiviral and antimicrobial agents, these nutrients can help you to fight or ward off infections. It has also shown in clinical studies that its antiviral properties can help combat and prevent cold sores (5).

Irish Sea Moss is a mucilaginous food, meaning its mucous like texture makes it a great healing/soothing agent for mucus membranes in the body, including in the respiratory and digestive systems. According to studies, Irish moss can have a prebiotic effect during digestion, meaning that it can increase beneficial short-chain fatty acids in the colon, influencing the composition of gut microbial communities, and improve overall gut health and immunity (6).

Irish Sea Moss has a healthy dose of magnesium and potassium, which are both known mood boosters and can help with depression and tension (7). Both minerals play a key role in brain function, and when we are low in either, we might not feel our usual self. Some research has also indicated that Irish moss can protect brain tissue from degeneration and Parkinson's disease (8).

Irish Sea Moss can nourish your skin because of its vitamin and mineral packed gelatin-like quality, many people use sea moss masks to soothe acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and burns. Studies have found that citrulline–arginine (9), a compound found in Irish moss, can improve cell growth and metabolism. This compound also releases amino acids that are essential for protein and collagen synthesis, Collagen is the protein that maintains smooth skin and silky hair.

Irish Sea Moss is nature’s multivitamin with many essential minerals and vitamins needed for optimal functioning, and being all natural allows for the greatest level of bioavailability. These include vitamins A, B, C, D, E, K and minerals Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc, Copper, Manganese and Selenium, along with Omega 3’s, amino acids and polysaccharides.

Irish Sea Moss contains large amounts of calcium, phosphorous and magnesium which are all important minerals for bone health. Calcium is a major building block of our bones and provide structure and strength for healthy bones. Research also shows that calcium requires phosphorous for maintaining bone health as 85% of your body’s phosphorous is combined with calcium in the bone! Magnesium is also great for your bones as people with higher intake have stronger bones and it helps prevent osteoporosis(8).

Irish Sea Moss contains calcium, potassium and sodium (7) all of which are required for healthy muscle function. Sodium helps regulate muscle contraction, nerve function and blood volume. Potassium is required for muscle contraction, communication between muscles and nerves, and overall muscular function. Calcium’s positive molecule is important to the transmission of nerve impulses to the muscle fibre via its neurotransmitter triggering release between nerves. Also not to forget, the most important muscle of them all… the HEART!

Irish Sea Moss is great for the heart as it contains plant based omega-3’s (6) which reduce the risk of certain heart diseases. It also contains plant sterols and soluble fibre (6) which help to reduce total and LDL cholesterol.