Sea Grapes
Sea grapes offer certain health benefits, as they are rich in vitamins A, B, C, K and beta carotene. They also contain a healthy amount of protein, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA, EPA and ALA. Known for its ability to fight inflammation and strengthen bones and joints, this variety can also benefit your eyesight and protect your heart health.
Sea Lettuce
An often-underappreciated sea vegetable, Sea Lettuce has many health benefits when consumed. High in vitamins and trace minerals such as fiber, iron, potassium, protein, magnesium, calcium and iodine, it may also help reduce inflammation in the body as well as reduce oxidative stress.
It may also support your immune system by providing antioxidants and phytochemicals which has been shown to strengthen immune response and prevent illness. Another interesting property of this unique sea green, is that it is rich in a powerful sulfated polysaccharide called Ulvan, which is absent in terrestrial plants but abundant in seaweeds. Ulvan has been reported to have anti-viral and anti-cancer properties, however, this is still currently being studied.
Red Ogo
A unique red-colored seaweed when fresh, Red Ogo turns dark green when it is cooked. This variety offers a nice salty taste and a crispy texture. It is high in many trace minerals such as potassium, where it contains 3x more potassium than bananas. It is also high in iron, calcium and vitamins such as vitamin A. This type has been shown to help increase resistance to stress and fatigue, making it a good choice for consumption to help support the health of those suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome and other health conditions.
It is generally used marinated in salads or as a decorative garnish for seafood dishes. It works well with sweet pickled vegetables and Pacific Island fare.
Dulse
When you think of seaweed, you may think that it mostly grows in warmer waters. Dulse on the other hand, grows best in colder waters (think Ireland) that are less contaminated than other ocean waters throughout the world.
Dulse is a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and B-12, which makes it popular with those who participate in vegan or vegetarian lifestyles where B-12 can be hard to find in anything other than animal by-products.
It also contains high levels of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which are also tough to find in a vegan diet. The vitamins and minerals found in this variety are known to help support heart health and brain function while also promoting physical and mental wellness. Some of the trace minerals found in this variety are potassium, iodine, folate. These minerals can contribute to and help detox the body when consumed, where it may also help support the liver. It can also be eaten to support skin health.
A fun fact about this variety is that when you fry it up for consumption, it has a unique smoky and salty flavor reminiscent of bacon, pleasing vegans and carnivores alike!
Wakame
One of the most well-known, and common types of seaweed, Wakame is frequently used in salads and other dishes. It has a pleasantly soft texture and mild flavor lending to its popularity. It can also be used in place of leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach or arugula in your dishes, as well as adding it into soups for a burst of flavor and nutrients.
Low in calories but high in nutrition, Wakame contains many trace minerals such as iodine, copper, phosphorus, manganese, folate, magnesium, protein, and calcium, as well as vitamins A, C, E and K. The high iodine content in this variety of seaweed has been studied and shown to support thyroid function. It may also help to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.