Healthy Algae
Introduction.
Across the world, cultures that developed by the coast have incorporated various fruits of the sea, apart from fish, into their diets and utilizing healthy algae is one such example. Whilst the historical knowledge of using algae is not quite entirely lost to western cultures, recent decades have seen an almost denial of the healthy properties that aquatic algae can give us. Two algae in particular that are known to be excellent health supplements are kelp and spirulina.
What do these algae do?
Funny to think that a seaweed can be good for us?
Kelp is a long stemmed seaweed from the brown algae species known as Fucus and is a prime source of iodine – essential in the treatment of thyroid problems. Spirulina is a type of blue algae, as such it is technically similar a bacterium being a single-celled micro-organism. However, the key property of spirulina is that it is rich in chlorophyll, giving rise to its main uses as a cure for halitosis. Indeed so effective is it as a cure for bad-breath you will see it listed as a constituent of many commercial breath fresheners. Both kelp and blue algae can help to boost levels of carotenoids and fatty acids; not to mention being excellent forms in which to take mineral supplements - especially for potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron. These algae are also attributed with various other curative powers such as hair loss, an energy boost and even helping people with a low libido.
Taking an algae as a health supplement.
Overactive thyroid glands lead to the classic symptom of a badly swollen neck.
Both kelp and spirulina are available in a variety of solid and liquid forms, with the tablets and powders being the most commonly used ones. If you have a thyroid problem, rather than self-prescribing kelp, you should consult with your doctor regarding the medication you require. When using spirulina, if you have halitosis that is caused by gum disease or an effect of very bad sinuses – spirulina will not on its own cure the problem. Otherwise simply mix a teaspoon of the powder with water and swish it around your mouth after cleaning your teeth, or chew and then swallow one of the tablets. Being rich in iodine, pregnant women and nursing mothers should seek expert opinion before taking kelp.
