What is Kelp?

Kelp is a type of seaweed/ algae that is considered a super food due to its high nutritional value. This sea vegetable is commonly eaten in Asian Countries and research studies are proving just how valuable kelp is to our health.

Health benefits:

– High in vitamin and minerals: kelp has been shown to contain 46 mineral, 16 amino acids and 11 different vitamins. The main minerals include iodine,  salt, iron, potassium, phosphorus and calcium. The leading vitamins contained in kelp are vitamin A and niacin.

– Helps you hydrate

– Helps alkalise your body

– Helps regulate your thyroid hormones and in turn our metabolism and energy levels. For this reason, kelp is often used in conjunction with weight loss.

– Protects against radiation poisoning

– Helps prevent cancer, particularly in women.

– An antioxidant

–  Has anti-inflammatory properties

-Kelp assists strengthening the immune system and fights viruses

Be careful not to have too much kelp however as the potent iodine content can cause toxicity in large doses.  A typical daily serving according to the Japanese diet would be 15 grams of kelp (3 tbsp), which is equivalent of 12 milligrams of iodine. Depending on your iodine intake and health status, this guide will vary.  Also keep in mind that table salt contains iodine.

Recipe- Easy Kelp Stir fry! 

Serves 2

– 1.5 Handfuls of kelp noodles

– 3 cups of mixed chosen vegetables

– 2 handfuls of spinach leaved finely chopped

– 1/2 onion diced

– 1/2 tbsp garlic crushed

– 1 tsp ginger crushed

– 2 tsp turmeric or to taste

– 3 tbsp tamari sauce  or to taste

– meat of choice already cooked or tofu (I used some left over roast chicken breast)

1) Saute onion with garlic in Wok or fry pan, then add ginger.

2) Toss in vegetables, sauce, and turmeric.

3) Mix through spinach and kelp noodles with a splash of water if needed.

4) Lastly mix through the meat or tofu, allowing if to warm.

5) Serve and enjoy!