Are you wondering what that dark green sheet is that’s wrapped around your sushi? It’s called nori, and it is actually made from seaweed. In Japan as well as various other parts of Asia, nori has been used for centuries now in garnishing all sorts of dishes. Aside from adding flavor, nori also boosts the nutritional content of your every meal. So the next time you are having noodles or soup, crush some nori and sprinkle it on liberally.
Here are some of the reasons why it’s a no-no to say “no” to nori:
It Helps Build and Repair Muscles
Vegetarians can choose from an assortment of plant-based protein sources, and some of them include beans and seeds. Whether you are a vegetarian or you just want to limit your consumption animal food products (such as for the reduction of your intake of saturated fats), it is a good idea to include nori in the diet because it is a great source of protein. BTW, protein is not only important for muscle building and repair, but also for healthy skin, hair and bones, normal production of enzymes, and a stronger immune system!
Nori Helps Prevent Constipation and Even Colon Cancer
The consumption of fiber-rich foods is essential for the prevention not only of constipation, but also colon cancer. Other than regularly eating oatmeal, green leafy vegetables, whole grains and others that are known to supply your body with good amounts of fiber, you should also add some nori to your favorite dishes. What’s so nice about nori is it may be used to garnish anything from rice, ramen to vegetable salads.
Eating It May Lower Bad Cholesterol
Since nori is rich in fiber, it doesn’t come as a surprise why it is very good for the circulatory system. Fiber is a nutrient that is scientifically proven to lower bad cholesterol levels. With your bad cholesterol in check, your risk of high blood pressure and heart disease is considerably reduced. For a healthy circulatory system, have more nori.
Munching on Nori Helps You Lose Excess Weight
Definitely, you should cut back on your consumption of foods that are laden with calories and fat. If you’re feeling hungry in between meals, it is a good idea to reach for some nori sheets rather than a bag of chips or bar of chocolate. What’s so great about snacking on nori is it can make you feel satiated right away and for a longer period of time due to the fact that it’s fiber-rich. Nori also helps sweep out accumulated toxins in your gut, and this helps promote a flatter belly.
It Also Helps Slow Down the Aging Process
Thanks to the loads of vitamin C in nori, consuming this popular garnish in Japan and various parts of Asia can help slow down the process of aging. That’s because vitamin C is an antioxidant that defends your cells from those harmful free radicals. Vitamin C is also important for health skin, gums and teeth, as well as a strong immune system.
Nori is Very Good at Warding Off Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia is a condition wherein there are insufficient red blood cells (RBCs) in the blood, thus making the carrying of oxygen to the tissues and organs inefficient. Just like what the condition’s name explains, it’s due to insufficient iron in the body. Fortunately, it’s fairly easy to prevent this type of anemia as there are numerous food sources of iron. One of the most impressive of them all is nori — 100 grams of nori provides about 88% of your daily iron needs.
This Seaweed is Good for the Thyroid
Iodine is a mineral necessitated by the thyroid for the proper production of its hormones. The hormones released by the thyroid gland are important for normal metabolism, energy level and body temperature. Including nori in your diet helps ensure that your body is getting good amounts of iodine, thus promoting a well-functioning thyroid.
