Seaweed is an excellent source of nutrients for humans and animals, and many of the compounds in seaweed are bioactive. Seaweeds belong to the algal group of plants and the cells within seaweed synthesise a number of biochemically useful nutrients including amino acids, terpenoids, acetogenins, alkaloids, chlorophyll, carotenoids, xanthophylls, saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids, halogenated compounds, vitamins K, B, A, as well as alginate, proteoglycans, laminarin, fucoidan, carrageenan and galactosyl glycerol. Evidence suggests that the nutrition of seaweeds makes them useful as antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral treatment. Nearly 50 % of the dry weight of seaweed is protein. Porphyra is an invaluable seaweed crop that contains high amounts of vitamin C, protein and trace minerals. The polysaccharides (porphyrin), polyphenols, proteins, chlorophyll and carotenoid content of porphyra may explain the beneficial health effects it possesses in humans and animals.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
