Wakame algae are known in Japan and used in the local cuisine. In other parts of the world, their popularity is slowly increasing due to the properties of these algae. Wakame stands out among others the content of fucoxanthin - a pigment that supports slimming and protects the circulatory system. Check what nutritional values ​​and he alth-promoting properties wakame algae have.

Wakame ( Undaria pinnatifida ) is a seaweed variety belonging to the brown algae group. Wakame algae grow in water to a depth of six meters. These algae are olive-colored, in the shape of thin, twisted strands. Wakame has a slightly sweet flavor. They are very popular in Japan, where they are used as an addition to salads, soups or appetizers.

Wakame algae: composition

Wakame algae are a valuable source of minerals and vitamins that have a beneficial effect on the human body, improving he alth. Wakame is rich in iodine, calcium, iron, magnesium and folic acid, vitamins A, C, E, K. These algae also contain fucoxanthin - a compound belonging to carotenoids with antioxidant properties.

Nutritional value of wakame algae (per 100 g):

energy value: 45 kcal protein: 3 g carbohydrates: 9 g fat: 0.65 gap: 150 mg iron: 2.18 mg magnesium: 107 mg zinc: 0.38 mg folic acid: 196 µg vitamin A: 18 µg vitamin E: 1 mg vitamin K : 5.3 µg vitamin C: 3 mg

Based on the United States Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service.

Wakame algae helpful in weight loss

Wakame algae, thanks to their low calorific value (45 kcal in 100 g) and low content of carbohydrates and fats, are helpful in weight loss and help maintain a he althy weight. The content of fucoxanthin is also important: a brown pigment that inhibits the accumulation of fat in cells and stimulates their oxidation.

Wakame algae and the circulatory system

Fucoxanthin, in addition to supporting weight loss, also has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system. It protects against heart disease, atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes by inhibiting the accumulation of fats.

Wakame algae also have a beneficial effect on the circulatory system due to the content of the fatty acids DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) belonging to the familyomega-3 fatty acids. The positive effect of these acids on the cardiovascular system is blood pressure regulation, anticoagulant activity, inhibiting the development of ischemic heart disease and coronary heart disease.

Wakame algae positively affect the thyroid gland

The iodine contained in wakame algae has an impact on the body's hormonal balance. It has a positive effect on the work of the thyroid gland, the organ responsible for the regulation of numerous processes in the body, ranging from regulating the growth and development of the body, through the development of the nervous system, to the regulation of metabolism and energy. In turn, the high content of magnesium in wakame algae has a positive effect on the production of hormones and increases the use of protein by the body, supporting the processes of cell growth and repair.

Wakame algae and the skeletal system

Wakame algae contain large amounts of calcium, a mineral necessary for the proper development of bones and teeth. Calcium provides them with adequate hardness and strength, accelerates the repair of bone defects, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Therefore, wakame algae should be reached by women at high risk of osteoporosis.

Wakame algae: application

Wakame is used primarily in cosmetics. Currently, they are becoming more and more popular as an ingredient of he althy, dietary meals. They are added to soups, salads or sandwiches.

Wakame algae: products available on the market

Wakame algae are available on the market in the form of dried leaves and in brine. They can be purchased at he alth food stores. On the market, we can find packages containing from 50 to 450 g of these algae. For one hundred grams of dried wakame leaves, we will pay from 5 to 50 zlotys. We can buy seaweed in brine for just PLN 15 for a 160-gram jar.

Wakame algae: preparation method

Soak the leaves for 3 to 5 minutes. Then strain the water. You can eat them raw or cook them. They are perfect as an addition to salads, soups, stews, sandwiches, pastes.

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Recipes for dishes with wakame algae

Spaghetti with wakame algae

  • 1 pack of wakame algae
  • 200 g spaghetti
  • 5 tomatoes
  • 50 g dried tomatoes
  • garlic, oil, pepper, lemon juice, parsley

Soak the algae according to the instructions on the package. Stew in a pan with finely chopped garlic, soaked and chopped dried tomatoes and scalded and chopped fresh tomatoes, reduce excess liquid so that a fairly thick sauce is formed. Cook the pasta ins alted water. After cooking, drain the pasta, add the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Wakame Algae Salad

  • 1 pack of wakame algae
  • 50 g arugula
  • 50 g iceberg lettuce
  • 10 cherry tomatoes
  • 1 red pepper
  • 0.5 kg chicken fillet
  • toasts
  • oil, garlic, lemon, s alt, pepper, gyros spice

Soak the algae according to the instructions on the package. Simmer them in a pan in a little oil. Season the chicken with gyros and fry. Slice the peppers into thin slices. Cut the tomatoes in half. Tear the lettuce into smaller pieces. Combine all ingredients, add the sauce prepared earlier (press garlic, add to oil, sprinkle with lemon juice, mix).

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