by Some even find it impossible to touch them. And yet, this marine plant is rich in valuable components for the human body and now researchers have found a way to use it without burdening the environment – Read the interesting study
VIKY VENIOU
He lives at the bottom sea, reinforcing its mysterious nature. Many are afraid to approach it and for others the idea of touching it does not seem at all tempting. And yet, in reality, it is a valuable marine treasure, which “hides” many important benefits for the body and human health.
The reason for the seaweed, a plant that has been used for many years by both the food and pharmaceutical industries. Their use is now expected to increase after a team from Tel Aviv University and the Israel Institute for Oceanographic and Limnological Research succeeded in doubling the antioxidants seaweed, to triple the amount of their natural sun protection and tenfold their unique protective pigments, considered to be of high medical value. The new findings, published in Marine Drugs, are expected to make a significant contribution to the health sector and in particular to the use of medicinal compounds derived from the sea.
“Algae belong to the marine ecosystem, playing an important role in the environment, as they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the atmosphere, purify water and provide food, habitat and a shelter for many species of fish and invertebrates”, explains the author. of the study and a Ph.D. researcher, Doron Ashkenazi. “Beyond that, however, they produce a wide variety of distinct bioactive compounds that are very beneficial to the human body.”
By studying different species of algae, researchers have noticed that those undergoing extreme stress conditions, such as changes in salinity, temperature, nutrient availability and high exposure to sunlight, have developed chemical defense mechanisms unique in order to survive these harsh environments.
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Based on this data, the research team cultivated three types of algae – Ulva, Gracilaria And Hypnea – next to the fish’s sewage and then exposed them to various stressful conditions, including high radiation, nutrient deprivation and high salinity. He then looked at how these changes affected the concentration of valuable biomaterials in algae.
“We have developed optimal culture conditions and designed a new method to improve the levels of healthy and natural bioactive compounds in algae,” Dr. Ashkénaze informed. “We basically created “super algae”, specially designed for use in emerging healthcare industries, for food care, pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications”.
The researchers’ goal in the next step is to impregnate the algae with additional natural substances, which will provide anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibiotic properties. The researchers expressed the belief that their methodology can be applied worldwide to the seaweed aquaculture industry, an environmentally friendly production capable of minimizing environmental pollutants and reducing greenhouse gases. .
“In the future, humanity will focus on creating science-based environmental solutions like this: technologies that promote recycling and the proper use of natural resources without overexploitation. We can preserve nature and thrive alongside it,” concludes Dr. Ashkenaze.
Algae are, in general, a good source of vitamins and minerals, which equates to many important benefits for the human body.
Photo: Shutterstock
Some of the most important benefits of seaweed are:
- They are rich in nutrients: Among other things, they are rich in vitamins A, C, E, K, B12, fiber, iron, calcium and others
- They are a good source of iodine and tyrosine: The thyroid gland needs iodine and tyrosine to function properly. Poor functioning of the thyroid, which controls metabolism, can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain or loss, and muscle weakness
- They contain a variety of protective antioxidants: Seaweed is rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, flavonoids and carotenoids, which prevent cell damage
- Contribute to weight loss: Some studies suggest that seaweed can help with weight loss because it’s low in calories and high in fiber.
- They improve heart health: Certain nutrients in seaweed, such as omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, help reduce risk factors for heart disease.
Finally, as with any other substance, the consumption of seaweed should be done in moderation. The high iodine content could make excessive consumption of seaweed a health threat, while the high amounts of sodium it contains could potentially pose a risk for people with high blood pressure.
Learn more:
Irritable bowel syndrome: The medicine of the sea that reduces discomfort
Algae “give” effective antibiotics and anti-cancer drugs
This is what we will eat in 2050
