Atlantic Dulse offers some health benefits that will blow your mind!
Here are 7 areas where there is evidence in academic literature of Dulse having the potential to positively impact human health.
Improved thyroid health:
Atlantic Dulse offers an excellent source of iodine which naturally occurs in this seaweed. Iodine is an essential nutrient that we must get from our diet as it cannot be synthesised by the human body. Iodine is of critical importance for thyroid health - the thyroid is a vital hormone gland that plays a significant role in the metabolism, growth and development of the human body. It helps to regulate many body functions by constantly releasing a steady amount of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream.
Healthier blood and blood flow:
Dulse offers Potassium - another essential nutrient, well-known as a vasodilator (medicines that dilate blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more quickly). Potassium helps reduce the strain and damage to blood vessels and arteries caused by high blood pressure and protects against coronary heart disease, strokes and heart attacks. Potassium can also help increase blood flow to the brain and capillaries. Furthermore, potassium plays a vital role in balancing body fluids, helping your heart maintain a steady beat and is needed for proper muscle contraction.
Increased fibre to improve digestion and cleansing:
Dulse contains a minimum of 35% fibre, with 10% soluble and the rest insoluble, both of which are important for a healthy body as they offer complementary benefits. Seaweed fibres are different to those in land-based plant foods because they contain fibrous polysaccharide substances such as alginic acid. This helps to detoxify heavy metals and radioactive isotopes from the body. Kelp seaweed and other brown seaweed varieties are particularly abundant in alginic acid or algin, but Dulse also contains this polysaccharide in adequate amounts. Since seaweed polysaccharides work to detoxify the liver, their cleansing ability naturally promotes glowing, healthier skin.
Healthier nervous system:
Dulse contains omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), which are not only important for heart health, but also for the functioning of the brain and nervous system. Studies have linked high levels of omega-3 fatty acids with improved brain and nervous system function. Another major benefit of the omega-3 content of Dulse is that it acts as an anti-inflammatory essential for balancing excess consumption of omega-6 fats which is all too common in our Western diet.
Increased folate/B-12:
Depending on how Dulse has been dried (and subject to seasonal variation) it can contain varying levels of folate and vitamin B12. These essential nutrients tend to be found mostly in animal products such as: meat, poultry, milk, fish, and eggs. If you are a vegan, vegetarian or plant-based, eating Dulse is an excellent way to get sufficient vitamin B12 in your daily diet. We have had samples of Dulse where a 99g portion of Dulse contains 6.6 micrograms of vitamin B12, which is more than 100 percent of the daily value set by the FDA.
Dulse contains a wealth of minerals including: calcium, magnesium, and iron; all of which contribute to improved bone mineral density, especially important for women as they age and become more susceptible to osteoporosis. Calcium is crucial for long-term bone and joint health.
Improved eyesight:
Dulse is also a good source of vitamin A, which acts as an antioxidant and prevents free radicals from damaging the eye tissue that leads to macular degeneration. Consumption of vitamin A in Dulse can also slow the development of cataracts, acting as an all-around vision booster. Dulse also contains vitamin C and the carotenoid antioxidants, such as alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, all of which promote healthy eyesight. Thus, reducing free radical damage and decreasing the risk of chronic disease.
In addition to the incredible health benefits Dulse can offer, it has a unique smoky flavour - quite different from other seaweeds. Use Dulse flakes as an alternative to salt and increase your mineral and nutrient intake whilst still enjoying the delicious saltiness dulse naturally offers.
We love Dulse so much we smoked it! Try our popular Smoked Dulse flakes - a flavour sensation.
Learn more about the different ways to add Dulse to your diet or try our extensive dulse recipes.
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This information may not include the very latest research. We encourage you to do your own research and discuss your findings with a qualified health practitioner who can help you validate the outcomes in the context of your specific & individual health situation.
