Precautions to Consider When Consuming Seaweed: A Nutritious Ingredient with Potential Risks

March 4, 2024

Seaweed is a common ingredient in our daily diet, and many people enjoy eating it. It is highly nutritious and contains a rich amount of minerals such as potassium and iodine. However, there are some precautions to consider when consuming seaweed!


1. Do not consume it as a staple food for a long period of time.

Consuming seaweed as a staple food for an extended period of time can lead to excessive intake of iodine, which may have negative effects on your health. Additionally, seaweed contains a certain amount of arsenic, and excessive consumption of arsenic can cause poisoning. Therefore, before eating seaweed, it should be rinsed with water to dissolve arsenic in it.

2. Do not soak it for a long time.

Do not soak seaweed for an extended period of time before eating it. If soaked for too long, the nutrients in seaweed, such as water-soluble vitamins and inorganic salts, will dissolve in the water, resulting in a significant reduction in nutritional value. If the seaweed becomes soft and loses its elasticity after soaking, it has gone bad and should not be consumed.

3. Use caution if you have hyperthyroidism.

Individuals with hyperthyroidism should avoid eating seaweed, as it contains a high amount of iodine, which can worsen the condition.

4. Pregnant women should be cautious.

It is not recommended for pregnant women to consume seaweed because of its high iodine content. If consumed in large quantities, iodine can enter the bodies of the fetus and infant, affecting the development of the thyroid gland. Therefore, pregnant women should be cautious when consuming seaweed.

5. People with weak spleen and stomach should be cautious.

Those with weak spleen and stomach should consume seaweed in moderation or avoid it altogether. Seaweed itself has a cooling nature, and excessive consumption can worsen digestive discomfort for individuals with weak spleen and stomach.

Share

Everyone Is Watching

icon

Hot Picks