Can Seaweed Solve Cardiovascular Disease?

A new study suggests that adding seaweed to processed foods can help reduce cardiovascular disease.

Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark found that dried and granulated seaweed - when incorporated into frozen pizzas, hot dogs or dried pasta - could not only improve heart health, but also regulate cravings for salt, sugar and fat.

The study included a review on the health effects of 35 different varieties of seaweed.

Better than salt?

Seaweed has long been considered a "superfood" because of its wide profile of health benefits, including antioxidants, minerals, fiber and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

As a salt replacement in foods, seaweed is also better for health - it doesn't lead to high blood pressure like regular table salt.

Adding seaweed to meat products might also help to lower cholesterol levels, the researchers said.

In order to reap the health benefits of seaweed, researchers recommend adding up to 5 percent of dried seaweed to dough, using the powder in egg dishes or sprinkling it on vegetables or fish.

"We know that many people have difficulty distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy food," the authors said. "By adding seaweed to processed foods, we can make food healthier. In many cases, we also get tastier food, and it may also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases."

The study is published in Phycologia.

Source: Science Daily