Comparing Sea Moss Vs. Seaweed: Similarities And Differences
Seaweed and sea moss are two types of sea algae with numerous health benefits and widespread applications. Recently, sea moss has gained popularity on TikTok, drawing attention to its uses and benefits. So, what are the real benefits of seaweed and sea moss? Let's explore and find out through this article.
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Key Takeaways
- Both seaweed and sea moss are highly nutritious.
- Sea moss is a type of seaweed classified as sea algae but has distinct shape and nutritional content characteristics.
- There are many different types of seaweed, while sea moss is more common with a few main types.
- Sea moss is often used in health and cosmetic products.
Understanding Seaweed
What is Seaweed?
Seaweed contains unique bioactive compounds like phlorotannins and polysaccharides not found in terrestrial plants, potentially offering health benefits [1].
Seaweed, also known as algae, is classified into four groups: red algae (rhodophyta), brown algae (phaeophyta), green algae (chlorophyta), and blue-green algae (cyanophyta). In Asian countries, seaweed is directly used for culinary purposes. In contrast, it is primarily used in food production in Western countries.
What are the Nutrition and Benefits of Seaweed?
Seaweed is a popular nutritional food source in Asian countries such as Japan, Korea, and China [2]. Beyond being a tasty food, it provides numerous nutritional benefits.
It is rich in fiber, which helps improve digestive function.
Seaweed can also help lower blood sugar levels after meals by slowing down the activity of enzymes alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase, which are usually involved in carbohydrate digestion and blood sugar elevation [3].
Seaweed contains omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Moreover, seaweed is abundant in essential amino acids crucial for muscle building and repair and support the body's immune system.
Seaweed also provides vitamins and minerals: it is rich in vitamins A, B, C, E, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, which enhance the immune system, bone health, and metabolism.
It contains phenolic compounds, antioxidants that may protect the body from chronic diseases and improve physical health.
Seaweed offers numerous benefits for the skin due to its bioactive compounds. It effectively combats aging with its antioxidant properties, protects the skin from UVB damage, reduces wrinkles, and boosts collagen production. Seaweed also soothes the skin, reduces inflammation, maintains moisture, softens the skin, brightens and evens skin tone, and helps unclog pores [4].
Uses of Seaweed
Seaweed has various applications in food: It is used directly in everyday dishes. Seaweed is a popular and distinctive food in coastal regions due to its unique flavor and numerous nutritional benefits. It can also be processed into gelling agents such as agar, alginate, and carrageenan.
Seaweed is also used for health and beauty care. Its components effectively retain moisture, keeping the skin soft and plump, offering antioxidant properties, reducing inflammation, and soothing the skin.
In industry: Seaweed can be used to produce bio-based products and chemicals, as well as thickeners and stabilizers.
Another area where seaweed is involved is agriculture: It can be used as a biofertilizer and animal feed, improving soil quality and crop yields.
Sea Moss Overview
What is Sea Moss?
Sea moss, also known as Chondrus crispus or Irish sea moss, is a type of sea algae rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, offering numerous health benefits [5]. Currently, sea moss is trending on social media due to its remarkable benefits for the skin.
The Chondrus genus contains a large amount of nutrients and has many beneficial biological properties. These include macronutrients, micronutrients, and bioactive compounds. Notably, C. crispus is high in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), MAAs, ascorbate, and α-tocopherol. The Chondrus genus has been shown to offer many health benefits. It is also a source of carrageenan and agar, widely used in dietary supplements, food additives, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals [6].
Studies have shown that this type of sea moss has positive effects on health, including antimicrobial, immune-boosting, neuroprotective, and antioxidant properties [6].
How Many Types of Sea Moss?
Currently, several popular types of sea moss exist, including gold, purple, green, and full-spectrum varieties. The color differences are due to pigments, chemical composition, and drying methods. The full-spectrum variety often refers to sea moss containing various nutrients and compounds from different colored sea moss types.
What are the Sea Moss Benefits?
Sea moss has diverse prebiotic effects, influencing gut microbiota composition, improving gut health, and modulating the immune system in mice [7].
Moreover, research has demonstrated that the Chondrus genus possesses valuable biological activities, particularly in enhancing immune function, and protecting cells [6].
Sea moss provides essential iodine for the thyroid gland, but it is important to use it in the correct dosage to avoid adverse effects [8].
Sea moss improves skin health by providing important nutrients such as collagen, vitamins, and minerals. The collagen in sea moss helps firm the skin and reduce wrinkles, while antioxidants protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, sea moss helps reduce inflammation, soothes issues like acne, and boosts skin hydration, keeping the skin soft and smooth [9].
How Do People Use Sea Moss in Food, Health, and Industry?
You can add sea moss to soups, stews, or salads in food. Additionally, if you want to make it into a drink, you can blend it into smoothies or water. It can also be used as a thickening agent (carrageenan) in processed foods.
For health: Sea moss is also a dietary supplement for skin care and overall health, especially to support digestive health. Other benefits of sea moss are still being researched, promising it to be a highly potential food for health care.
In industry: Sea moss is used in food production (carrageenan), pharmaceuticals (gelling agents), and as a binder in paper production.
Is Sea Moss A Seaweed?
Sea moss is a type of seaweed classified as sea algae but has distinctive shape and nutritional content characteristics.
However, not all seaweed is sea moss: Seaweed is a broader term that includes various species with different shapes, sizes, and colors. Sea moss belongs to a group of multicellular marine organisms and has characteristics similar to seaweed.
Comparing Seaweed and Sea Moss
Similarities of Seaweed and Sea Moss
Both seaweed and sea moss are aquatic plants that grow in water environments. They both contain numerous beneficial compounds for health and can be used in food and healthcare products.
Differences of Seaweed vs Sea Moss
| Characteristic | Seaweed | Sea Moss |
| Definition | A general term for photosynthetic aquatic organisms without typical roots, stems, or leaves like land plants. | Usually refers to seaweeds with simpler structures that typically attach to hard surfaces underwater. |
| Habitat | Found in various aquatic environments, from shallow to deep seas. | Typically attached to hard surfaces underwater, such as rocks, shells, or other seaweeds. |
| Uses | Used in food, medicine, industrial ingredients, fertilizers, etc. | Commonly used in fresh and processed foods. |
Nutritional Content Analysis of Seaweed and Sea Moss
Here’s a comparison table, standardizing the units for ease of comparison [10], [11]:
| Nutrient | Sea Moss (per 10 grams) | Irish Moss (Seaweed) (per 100 grams) |
| Calories | 5 | 49 kcal |
| Protein | 0.2 grams | 1.51 grams |
| Total Fat | 0.02 grams | 0.16 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.13 grams | 1.3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 1.2 grams | 12.3 grams |
| Sugars | 0.06 grams | 0.61 grams |
| Calcium | 7.2 milligrams | 72 milligrams |
| Iron | 0.89 milligrams | 8.9 milligrams |
| Magnesium | 14.4 milligrams | 144 milligrams |
| Phosphorus | 15.7 milligrams | 157 milligrams |
| Potassium | 6.3 milligrams | 63 milligrams |
| Sodium | 6.7 milligrams | 67 milligrams |
| Zinc | 0.195 milligrams | 1.95 milligrams |
| Copper | 0.015 milligrams | 0.149 milligrams |
| Vitamin C | Not specified | 3 milligrams |
| Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) | Not specified | 0.466 milligrams |
| Niacin (Vitamin B3) | Not specified | 0.593 milligrams |
| Folate (Vitamin B9) | Not specified | 182 µg (micrograms) |
| Vitamin A | 6 µg (micrograms) | 118 IU (International Units) |
|
Vitamin E |
0.87 milligrams | Not specified |
| Total Saturated Fat | 0.033 grams | Not specified |
| Total Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.055 grams | Not specified |
Conclusion: Sea Moss and Irish Moss (seaweed) provide essential minerals and vitamins but in varying amounts. Sea Moss stands out with its low calorie and sugar content and significant amounts of iron and magnesium relative to the serving size. Irish Moss (seaweed) offers more detailed nutritional information for vitamins and minerals.
Which One is Better, Seaweed or Sea Moss?
Both seaweed and sea moss offer different nutritional benefits and applications, so the choice of which is better depends on specific uses. Here's a comparison table to help guide your decision.
| Seaweed | Sea Moss | |
| Benefits | Rich in iodine, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins. Supports thyroid health and provides many essential minerals. Fiber: Provides high fiber content, which is beneficial for digestion and gut health. |
Provides iodine, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Particularly rich in antioxidants like lutein and β-carotene. Prebiotics: Supports digestive health due to its prebiotic properties. |
| Applications | Commonly used in cooking, especially in Asian dishes like sushi and seaweed soup. | Often used in dietary supplements, skincare gels, and functional foods. |
| Drawbacks | Some types of seaweed can contain very high levels of iodine, which may lead to overdose if consumed excessively. | Less common in cuisine compared to seaweed; primarily used in supplement form. |
Sea Moss Vs. Other Edible Seaweeds
Sea Moss vs. Spirulina: Both are superfoods with different benefits and properties.
- Protein: Spirulina has more protein than Sea Moss.
- Nutrients: Sea Moss is richer in iodine, while Spirulina has more antioxidants.
- Flavor: Sea Moss is flavorless and easy to use in dishes. Spirulina has a bitter taste and is usually blended with smoothies or juices.
Sea Moss vs. Bladderwrack: While Sea Moss is notable for digestive and skin health benefits, Bladderwrack excels in supporting cardiovascular and eye health.
Sea Moss vs. Kelp: Kelp is prominent for its iodine and essential vitamins for thyroid and bone health, while Sea Moss benefits digestion, immune system, and skin health.
Sea Moss vs. Dulse: Sea Moss offers diverse nutritional benefits and overall health advantages. Dulse has higher iron and potassium content and can be easily used as a snack or seasoning.
Sea Moss vs. Chlorella: Both contain complete proteins and are highly absorbable, aiding the body in utilizing nutrients effectively.
- Chlorella has high omega-3 content and supports immune health.
- Sea Moss is notable for iodine, which helps maintain thyroid function and provides many essential vitamins.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations of Seaweed and Sea Moss Farming
Growing seaweed and sea moss can have positive environmental impacts. These plants absorb CO2 more efficiently than others, helping reduce greenhouse effects. They create habitats for marine life and absorb excess nutrients in seawater, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, reducing pollution and improving water quality.
However, improper planning and management of seaweed and sea moss cultivation could lead to pollution and disruption of local ecosystems, affecting other marine life.
Both seaweed and sea moss do not require land and use less water than other crops. This makes them attractive options for sustainable food systems.
Nevertheless, cultivating seaweed and sea moss comes with challenges. A major challenge is managing water quality and ensuring that cultivation is conducted according to its intended purpose to avoid negative impacts.
This also necessitates technological and policy measures to reduce negative environmental impacts and maintain long-term sustainability.
Conclusion
Both seaweed and sea moss offer valuable health benefits and diverse applications. However, they differ in origin, nutritional content, and uses. Understanding their benefits will help you choose the right food for yourself. We hope this article has provided you with useful information.
References
- [1] Brown EM, Allsopp PJ, Magee PJ, et al. Seaweed and human health. Nutrition reviews. 2014;72(3):205-216. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/nure.12091
- [2] Rajapakse N, Kim SK. Nutritional and Digestive Health Benefits of Seaweed. Advances in food and nutrition research. Published online January 1, 2011:17-28. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-387669-0.00002-8
- [3] Vidyashree JS, Shetti PP, Ghagane SC. Seaweeds as a potential resource in diabetes management: a review. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2024;10(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-024-00583-8
- [4] Ratih Pangestuti, Shin KH, Kim SK. Anti-Photoaging and Potential Skin Health Benefits of Seaweeds. Marine drugs. 2021;19(3):172-172. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/md19030172
- [5] Rock Hard Staff. Does Sea Moss Cure Erectile Dysfunction? Rock Hard Male. Published November 19, 2022. Accessed July 31, 2024. https://rockhardmale.com/does-sea-moss-cure-erectile-dysfunction
- [6] Park SJ, Sharma A, Lee HJ. An Update on the Chemical Constituents and Biological Properties of Selected Species of an Underpinned Genus of Red Algae: Chondrus. Marine Drugs. 2024;22(1):47-47. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/md22010047
- [7] Liu J, Kandasamy S, Zhang J, et al. Prebiotic effects of diet supplemented with the cultivated red seaweed Chondrus crispus or fructo-oligo-saccharide on host immunity, colonic microbiota and gut microbial metabolites. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2015;15(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-015-0802-5
- [8] Darias-Rosales J, Rubio C, Gutiérrez ÁJ, Paz S, Hardisson A. Risk assessment of iodine intake from the consumption of red seaweeds (Palmaria palmata and Chondrus crispus). Environmental Science and Pollution Research. 2020;27(36):45737-45741. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-020-10478-9
- [9] Sea Moss & Collagen | Natures Farmer Sea - Natures Farmer Sea. Natures Farmer Sea. Published January 27, 2023. Accessed July 31, 2024. https://www.naturesfarmersea.com/blogs/news/sea-moss-collagen
- [10] FoodData Central. Usda.gov. Published 2024. Accessed July 31, 2024. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168456/nutrients
- [11] Health Benefits Of Sea Moss, According To Experts. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/sea-moss-benefits/. Published July 22, 2024. Accessed July 31, 2024.
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