Move over spirulina there is a new algae in town. Brown algae to be exact. Or if you want to get real fancy (because I know you do), its scientific name is Ascophyllum Nodosum.
Unlike that stuff you avoid on your morning kayak or were forbidden to touch that one time in Europe; the right kind of algae is chock a block full of health benefits. Spirulina and Chlorella have long dominated the market for algae super supplements, however brown algae seaweed is set to become the new kid (or kelp) on the block.
Thriving in cold northern hemisphere waters, brown algae seaweed supplements are being brought to Australia by Divinita, a Queensland based family company harvesting the goodness of the Scottish / Norwegian coastal waters.
Hold up, I hear you, why do I need to add another supplement to my health-tine?
Well research shows brown algae seaweed supplements can effectively detox the body of free radicals and heavy metals, combined with the nutrients to replenish a healthy gut. This means better immunity, more energy and a more effective metabolism! High in prebiotic fibres, a supplement like brown algae seaweed can help cultivate probiotic bacteria that are vital to overall health.
Backed by Dr Peer Schenk, Professor at the University of Queensland added: “Extensive research shows that brown algae seaweed is more rich in antioxidants than acai berry and contain more vitamin A than tomatoes and pumpkin. It also comprises more protein than eggs and has a low GI.
This is particularly important because it allows the body to slowly digest the contents, which may help with the feeling of satiety and allow for better absorption. It also demonstrates the ability to extract harmful heavy metals with only a very small amount of algae.”
Ascophyllum Nodosum is also very rich in protein containing higher protein content than eggs, tofu and beans. It also has around 25 per cent starch, of which more than half contributes to a slow digestibility process (low GI). While it is not as high as typical starch foods (green bananas, rice, sweet potatoes etc.), it has a high resistant starch percentage. This is particularly important because it allows the body to slowly digest the contents, which may help with feeling of satiety and allow for better absorption.
Enough to get your attention right?!
Research by Dr Peer Schenk also revealed that the metal chelating ability of Ascophyllum Nodosum was creditable, showing that only a very small amount of algae is needed to extract harmful heavy metals.
Could this be the new hero of our supplement stash?! Stay tuned.
Lee & Scarlett x
