Prebiotic Seaweed Granules

Straight from the ocean, organic seaweed is in the spotlight with a vengeance. Traditionally used in eastern Asian cooking, this ocean weed has made a name for itself as a high nutrient, plant-based, vitamin and mineral extravaganza. As versatile as rice, and as tasty as your favourite food, this green plant-based seaweed lines the shelves in various forms, shapes, and sizes. The one in focus today is the prebiotic seaweed granules that come with a number of specific benefits of their own. Let’s take a closer look.

What Are Seaweed Granules Made From?

The best kind of seaweed is made from local, hand harvested Kelp. Local often has different connotations, but as long as it’s not been imported, you’re on track. Kelp itself is a type of algae that grows in the shallow waters along various coastal regions around the world. Australia is lucky to be surrounded by kelp forests (yes – underwater forests) which makes harvesting easier and makes for a premium product. Kelp likes to grow in nutrient-rich saltwater and feeds off the various vitamins and minerals. Here’s the breakdown of what you can find in kelp seaweed granules:

• Iron
• Calcium
• Vitamin C
• Magnesium
• Folate
• Vitamin K1
• Vitamin A
• Pantothenic acid

With such a diverse and rigorous repertoire, seaweed granules have found their way onto every superfood checklist, and continue to be included in the yummiest of meals.

How Do Seaweed Granules Support Gut Health?

Prebiotic seaweed refers to the type of fibre present in kelp and other algae that stimulate the growth of good bacteria in your gut. Essentially, prebiotic foods become food for probiotic bacteria in your gut. If you don’t get enough good, non-digestible fibre in your gut then the probiotic bacteria will start eating away at the mucus lining and can result in an irritable bowl. This is where seaweed comes in. With a higher fibre content than most other fruit or vegetables, seaweed also has key sugars that are known to generate good gut bacteria.

How Can I Use Prebiotic Seaweed Granules In My Cooking?

The advantages of prebiotic seaweed granules are the ease of incorporating them into any dish, even as a garnish or last-minute addition. Prebiotic seaweed granules are super accessible and present one of the easiest ways to add fibre and nutrition to your favourite foods. Think pizza dough, porridge, rice, even sprinkled on meat or tossed through stir-fries, seaweed granules make extra fibre and nutrition a breeze. With a wide range of versatility across nutrients and vitamin content, seaweed flavour is highly compatible with a vast array of foods. Be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner you’ve got the agency to include this flavour bomb whenever you want.

Are There Any Health Benefits?

With so many nutrients and minerals, for any nutritionist, ocean kelp is the stuff of dreams. Here are some key health benefits:

• Great source of prebiotic fibre. Seaweed granules are full of fibre and are known to be an excellent source of food for probiotic bacteria in your gut. Incorporating seaweed granules into your diet can lead to improved gut health.
• Better immunity. Seaweed naturally bolsters immune system health by promoting the production of white blood cells that are used to fight off unwanted bacteria and viral infections.
• Antioxidant-rich. Seaweed works wonders relieving oxidative stress and can reduce cellular inflammation.
• Antibacterial force. Seaweed has evolved to withstand many dangerous microbes floating in the oceans and has become a great antibacterial fighter within the body.
• Full of iron. Kelp, in particular, is a rich source of iron which is important in delivering oxygen to the blood cells. Low iron deficiency has been linked to various diseases and can result in chronic fatigue and other ailments.
• Hormone balancing effect. Seaweed is a great source of natural iodine which in turn plays a role in creating thyroid hormones.

Benefits Of Locally Grown Seaweed Granules

Buying local has taken on a whole new meaning in the 21st Century, and Australian hand harvested kelp is no different. With an abundance of kelp forests around Australia’s coastline, the advantages of a freshly produced, honest, and 100% organic and vegan-friendly product are monumental. As the seated industry grows, so will the supply chains, and knowing how to stick local is key to supporting industries here at home. Finding a brand that uses 100% recyclable packaging is always a plus. Also a must these days is knowing your food is having a positive and minimal impact on the environment.

How Much Is Too Much?

Including seaweed in your diet is a great first step toward better gut health and more control over how much fibre is going into your body. You may be already experiencing better immunity or even some weight loss. But how much seaweed is the right amount? Generally, depending on your metabolism and diet, the daily recommended dose is about 5 grams. Depending on your diet and other lifestyle factors, this number could be slightly higher or lower, consulting your healthcare professional or nutritionist can be a good way of finding out the perfect amount for you. Including seaweed into any diet is very easy, but there is such a thing as too much seaweed resulting in over production of iodine and indigestion. Keep it balanced with a snack here or there, and include seaweed granules in meal preparation when flavour invites it.

Where To Find Locally Sourced Seaweed Granules

With a number of online markets and health stores including seaweed in their stock, finding a trusted outlet is easy. Having seaweed delivered is very cost effective and a great way of making your weekly shop lighter. It’s also a great way to ensure you get the right amount of fibre in your diet. With an abundance of Australian made prebiotic seaweed granules on the market, it’s easier than ever to take advantage of their great flavour and many health benefits.