Obesity is a major concern for many of us, today. Wanting to lose some of that weight or even keep it under control is only natural. But how do we do that?
If you’ve been looking for some time, I’m sure you’ve come across a million things, from supplements to medicines to what not.
But what if you could control your weight and even lose it, through a more natural way? Wouldn’t that be awesome?
Well, there is a way! It’s called…Algae! Algae, (seaweed) especially of the blue-green variety, has been proved to help in weight loss in a variety of ways. And what’s more, it’s natural and tasty!
We have carefully selected algae for weight loss. You’ll find algae/seaweed products that are natural, organic and proven to be good for weight loss.
Types of Algae Good for Weight Loss
Brown Algae for Weight Loss:
Brown algae are found at the coasts of Japan, China, and Korea. It is believed that brown algae contain antioxidants and chemicals that boost the immune system and help reduce inflammation.
Some researchers also show that the consumption of dietary fibers that are found in brown algae can help reduce weight by decreasing hunger and increasing satiety.
In other words, consumption of brown algae leads you to feel full and thus helps you avoid overeating.
Blue-Green Algae for Weight Loss
Blue-Green algae have been used as a dietary supplement for iron, proteins, and B-Vitamins. They also boost the immune system and improve digestion.
Blue-Green algae are believed to help with weight loss. They’re also believed to detox the body. Though studies have shown an uneven effect of blue-green algae on the weights of obese adults.
Species of Algae Good for Weight Loss
Spirulina Maxima and Spirulina Platensis
Of the 1500 species of blue-green algae, only two species, namely Spirulina Maxima and Spirulina Platensis, are used for human consumption.
Spirulina is rich in proteins and also contains minerals, vitamins, and essential fatty acids.
Spirulina has been believed to help with weight loss, though it hasn’t been proved yet.
Alginate for Weight Loss
Alginate is brown algae that are known to help with weight control and weight loss.
Studies have shown that Alginate can help to suppress the digestion of fats in the gut. Researchers believe that because of this, the body will absorb less fat, and thus, help avoid weight gain.
Though it must be noted that blocking fat digestion may not always be beneficial, because fat plays an important role in metabolism. Alginate might stop any fat from getting digested, and that might affect the body’s metabolism.
How to Include Algae in Diet:
Seaweed Salads
Seaweed can be consumed in a myriad of delicious ways as a salad. From Wakame to Nori, a number of blue-green algae are used to make these salads. The best thing about salads is that they’re mostly uncooked, and hence are the most beneficial, nutritionally. There are numerous recipes you can find online for the most delicious and healthy salads you’ll ever eat.
Here are some of the recipes I’d recommend you to check out.
Wakame Seaweed Salad:
Japanese Seaweed Salad:
Seaweed Soups
Soups are another easy way to add some algae to your diet. Seaweed soups are highly nutritional, and also taste pretty good. You can include a bowl of seaweed soup to your breakfast and enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal!
Not sure how a seaweed soup should be made? No worries! Here are some cool recipes to get you going!
Korean-Style Seaweed Soup:
Seaweed (Algae) Snacks
Seaweed snacks are now available at almost every grocery store. And if it isn’t, you can easily find it in the online stores like Amazon.
We all love munching on crunchy, oily snacks, don’t we? But what if we could munch on something that is actually healthy? Wouldn’t that be awesome?
And the good thing is, we can! Because seaweed snacks (a.k.a. Algae snacks) are crunchy, tasty and healthy! What more can you ask for!
If you’d like some seaweed snack recommendations, you can check out my previous article about them.
Seaweed (Algae) Supplements:
Another way to consume algae is through supplements. If you don’t have enough free time to make salads and soups, then algae supplements may be the one for you.
There are a number of supplements available online, suitable for all ages and consumers. It may be difficult to find a supplement you like, but once you do, you’ll fall in love with it!
Listed below are a few weight loss supplements you can check out.
Nature Bound Natural Spirulina:
Natural and easy to consume, these capsules made from the blue-green algae extracts might be the perfect choice for you!
Micro Ingredients Spirulina Powder:
You can easily add a spoonful of this powder into any meal and make it healthier.
Conclusion
It is safe to say that there are a number of ways algae can help with weight loss. Though it is still unclear whether algae actually reduces weight, or just controls it.
It should also be noted that too much of everything is dangerous. As effects of algae on weight are yet unproven, it is recommended to consult with your doctor before consuming Algae supplements.