The wakame seaweed has a Japanese origin. It is well known there for its various properties. It is used to lose weight, to provide minerals to the body, to help protect and strengthen bones and improve defenses. In addition, it is very good, it is used in the diet in many salads and other recipes and its preparation is very simple.
In terms of texture and flavor, it is very similar to kombu seaweed. So if you are looking for wakame, make sure you buy the right one in your store. These similarities occur more when they are dry, if you moisten them you will begin to notice differences in their appearance. For example, wakame seaweed differs from kombu in that the latter is somewhat thicker and takes longer to cook.
But since this is an article about wakame seaweed, here you will find the most important properties of this wonderful Japanese vegetable. You will also learn how to prepare and use it.
What are the properties of wakame seaweed for our health?
There are many, but in this post we are going to name the most important ones.
To lose weight
Wakame is widely used in weight loss diets. Being an algae, its fat content is very low, and also the presence of iodine helps in the stimulation of metabolic functions. On the other hand, it is rich in alginic acid, a molecule that generates a feeling of satiety somewhat faster than usual and helps you control your appetite.
However, to lose weight remember that the ideal is a balanced and constant diet.
It is rich in minerals
Wakame seaweed is very rich in minerals. This makes it suitable for consumption just after exercising to replenish and revitalize the body. Among them are iron, potassium or iodine.
In bone problems
As we have said, it has many minerals, including calcium, essential for maintaining healthy bones, iron and iodine. For this reason, it is highly indicated as a natural remedy for osteoporosis, or those who need an additional dose of the mineral. Many children consume it in Japan as it helps them to have healthy growth.
It contains vitamins
As it is rich in vitamins C, A and B-type vitamins such as B1, B2 and B3, wakame seaweed is indicated to make up for their deficiencies in case of deficiency. We must remember that by consuming more vitamins they will not exert a greater function in our body, since if we exceed the dose we will expel them through the urine.
How is wakame seaweed used?
Being a seaweed, its preparation is very simple and can be included in a wide variety of recipes. To have it ready, you only have to soak it for about 4 or 5 minutes. One detail to keep in mind is that the container to soak them must be small, to put the least amount of water possible and not lose its properties. Having said that, here are some tips on how to prepare wakame seaweed :
- Alone, straight from the soak to the table. You can also make a vegetable broth and include it to give it a characteristic touch. The amount depends on the intensity of flavor you want.
- You can boil it and accompany it with other ingredients such as beans or potatoes.
- In salads. For me it is the easiest way. You can add it to all kinds of salads and combine it with other products such as sesame seeds. A very typical one is the Japanese cucumber and seaweed salad.
- It is an ideal ingredient in vegetable purees.
- In soups, as a complement to the broth or directly on the same soup.
- In general, in any dish related to vegetables and other vegetables, as well as rice dishes, or a garnish of meat and fish, wakame seaweed is an ideal ingredient both dry and soaked, healthy and typical of a balanced diet.
Cosmetic applications
The wakame seaweed, in addition to being a dietary product, is also widely used in natural cosmetics. Its revitalizing properties can be applied directly to the skin. In addition, it contributes to the production of hyaluronic acid and other tensor molecules such as elastin.
Creams and serums with wakame help prevent aging and visibly reduce fine lines, increasing the smoothness and turgidity of the dermal layers in the skin. It is also a relaxing component to use after harsh skincare products.
Contraindications
An interesting detail to comment on: its intake does not present contraindications, unless you have a problem with the thyroid gland. In this case, you should moderate its consumption due to its high iodine content. The best way to know what is the dose that you can consume this healthy and slimming food is to consult your doctor, especially if you suffer from hyperthyroidism. Otherwise, you shouldn’t worry about any other contraindications.
Where can I buy wakame seaweed?
It is very common to find them in herbalists and specialized food stores, such as supermarkets. Another option is to buy wakame seaweed online, there are several sites where they offer this sea vegetable with high quality.