See Moss Gummies: All that you need to know

Introduction

In recent years, Gummies have dominated the market due to their chewable dosage format and ease of consumption without having to taste the bitterness of the supplement in the tablet form. Gummies cover all over from CBD to multivitamins and supplements including vitamin C, collagen, melatonin, etc.

Sea Moss gummies have become increasingly popular and are widely used by various populations for the consumption of seam moss, red algae, or Irish moss which is a significant superfood.

What is Sea Moss?

Sea Moss or red seaweed also known as Irish Moss, scientifically known as Chondrus crispus is a seaweed that grows in the mid to low intertidal ocean zone as this specific zone has temperature conditions that significantly influence its growth and nutrient absorption. This alga primarily grows in the Atlantic Ocean and it is a sea vegetable rich in various minerals harvested for its astounding nutritional profile. It is spiny and comes in various colors including green, red, brown, purple, etc. [1] [2]

For centuries sea moss has been used in various cultures across the world for its nutritional compositions as a natural remedy for issues such as flu, colds, and gastrointestinal conditions and as food as well. [1] In the later 20^th century sea moss supplements gained popularity and now reflect the ‘functional foods’ trend.

5 Health benefits of Sea Moss

Sea Moss is significantly rich in various important minerals, and nutrients including potassium, iodine, magnesium, antioxidants, and vitamins such as A.E, K, and F.

1. Cardiovascular health

Sea moss is rich in essential minerals significant for cardiovascular health. Minerals regulate blood pressure decreasing the risk of strokes. Furthermore, Omega-3 fatty acids reduce triglycerides which prevents conditions such as arrhythmias, and a few other chronic heart conditions [7]. Also, the nutrient composition of sea moss reduces LDL levels which is highly beneficial for heart health. [3] [4]

2. Gut health

Sea Moss possesses remarkable prebiotic properties which serve as an important food for healthy gut bacteria and promote a strong immune response. Polysaccharides such as carrageenan act as an important prebiotic that promotes the growth and activity of good bacteria in the gut.[5] Moreover, a few other components such as antioxidants and polyphenols exhibit efficient anti-inflammatory properties significantly reducing the symptoms of chronic digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease. [5] [6]

3. Weight management:

Being highly rich in dietary fibre sea moss can help with satiety and appetite reduction. This helps feel fuller for a long time and reduces the intake of calories. Sea moss is one of the most abundant plant sources of iodine, a mineral required for normal thyroid function. Maintaining good thyroid functioning improves metabolism and promotes loss of weight. [4] [8]

4. Skin health

Due to the nutrient composition of sea moss, the skin gets nourished from within. Vitamins such as C, K, A, E, etc, are important for maintaining clear and healthy skin. With the presence of antioxidants, free radicals can be effectively combatted which prevents premature aging. Collagen content reduces fine lines, and wrinkles and improves skin elasticity. [4] [7]

5. Hair Health

Sea moss helps provide a conducive environment for the follicles of the hair. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are responsible for protecting against problems such as dandruff and hair fall in turn maintaining a healthy scalp. Also, the nutrient composition of sea mosses promotes the production of proteins such as keratin that make up hair strands. [5] [7]

Potential risks associated with the consumption of sea moss gummies

Contaminants: Sea moss may absorb several contaminants from its environment and deep seawater. There are high chances of contamination from improper processing and harvesting methods. These contaminants may include sea pollutants and heavy metals which may lead to metal toxicity.
Interactions with existing medications: People on medications for blood clotting, thyroid, etc need to be cautious of the interactions of bioactive compounds present in sea moss.
Potential allergies: As sea moss is derived from the deep sea and algae, people with seafood allergies may be at greater risk for allergic reactions due to sea moss as well.
Added sugars: Gummies tend to contain added sugars and artificial sweeteners. Overconsumption of high sugars and gummies may cause metabolic disorders, weight gain, etc. [9]

Conclusion

Sea Moss is probably the most nutrient-rich and complete ‘functional food.’ When consumed under proper guidance and in a regulated manner can reap numerous health benefits. Also, further research is highly required to explore the potential benefits of sea moss. However, it is important to understand the associated risk factors at the same time. Getting on any kind of newly launched and hyped supplement or product requires professional guidance from a healthcare expert.