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I’ve been known to try some interesting things in the name of health. We can add eat seaweed to that list too. Sea moss has gained popularity in recent years for its health benefits. And a tasty way to get more of it is with these delicious, apple cinnamon sea moss gummies!
Yep, it’s a moss that grows in the sea. Also known as Irish sea moss, it’s one of the red seaweeds. The technical name for it is Chondrus crispus and it grows in the rocky areas of the Northern Atlantic Sea. So the question is, why eat it?
This superfood has a variety of health benefits and a decent amount of research behind it. Most of the studies are done in animals or in vitro, but there are some human studies too. It’s full of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals like the following:
A 2021 study found sea moss positively affected sperm motility (among other fertility markers) in male mice. Researchers concluded red seaweed could increase male fertility.
2015 research looked at its ability to act on pathways known to affect Parkinson’s Disease. This animal study showed promising results in fighting neurodegenerative disease. Several studies have shown it has some anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit chronic inflammatory metabolic disease.
Other studies have looked at its effect on digestive health. Sea moss is rich in dietary fiber and shows prebiotic effects. Dietary supplements with sea moss can help improve gut health by helping increase beneficial bacteria and decrease harmful pathogens.
Several animal studies noted it can offer immune support and stimulate the immune system. And like elderberry, it’s been shown to fight the flu virus. A 2016 study looked at sea moss and its ability to ward off salmonella bacteria. Not only did it significantly reduce salmonella growth, but it also decreased biofilm formation.
Human studies show it helped improve energy levels, pain, and digestive issues, and gave a mood boost. The sea moss also helped improve musculoskeletal related issues.
This unassuming little algae supports quite a few body systems!
Because it’s a decent source of iodine, some sources suggest seaweed can provide thyroid support. They’re also sure to add the disclaimer that too much iodine can be harmful though. The biggest source of iodine in developed countries is refined (and unhealthy) iodized salt, which is something I try to avoid.
Someone eating the typical standard American diet (SAD) will likely have plenty of iodine from processed foods. In fact, processed salt is considered the number one source of iodine in the developed world. If someone uses lots of iodized salt and eats tons of seaweed every day, that might not be the best combination.
Those with hypothyroid or autoimmune thyroid problems may also benefit from reducing iodine intake. Personally, I found that while I was recovering from my autoimmune disease, I felt worse supplementing with iodine. This depends on the person and their exact condition though. When in doubt, as your natural healthcare provider.
Raw sea moss tastes great in smoothies, especially berry smoothies. As long as you don’t add too much, the taste is subtle. You can also find non-GMO organic sea moss gummies from certain health food stores or online (like Amazon). If you want a non gummy sea moss supplement, then there are sea moss capsules or powder.
You want to look for wildcrafted sea moss without preservatives or additives. It might also be labeled organic Irish sea moss. The powder I used for these sea moss gummies had bladderwrack & burdock root in it too.
Organic bladderwrack is a brown seaweed that’s also loaded with health benefits. It’s rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, like iodine, vitamin C, and phytochemicals. Research has also linked it with weight loss, anti-cancer, and blood sugar-balancing benefits.
Burdock is another superfood ingredient that’s used both internally and in skincare products. This prebiotic can help protect the liver, support a healthy weight, and encourage clearer skin. The European Medicines Agency does not recommend burdock during pregnancy since it can have an effect on the uterine muscles.
One of the most popular ways to use sea moss is with sea moss gel. To make it, you soak a chunk of dried sea moss in water overnight. The next day blend it up until smooth and store it in a jar in the fridge. Homemade sea moss gel can last up to a few weeks in the fridge.
You don’t just have to eat Irish sea moss gummies to get the wellness benefits. Because it’s high in antioxidants and nutrients, sea moss gel is also a popular skincare ingredient. The peptides, amino acids, and other nutrients provide hydration and help protect against environmental stressors. It can also be used as a face mask.
Too busy to make your own? I couldn’t find premade gummies without sugar, dyes, or other unhealthy ingredients. However, there are plenty of other ways to supplement with sea moss. You can use this sea moss to make your own sea moss gel or put the powder into smoothies.
These gummies are naturally gluten-free and use natural sweeteners like juice and honey. They aren’t vegan gummies because of the gelatin, but gelatin has a lot of amazing health benefits of its own. I’ve seen vegan sea moss gummies that use agar agar, but it’s not something I’ve tried.
I opted for apple juice infused with cinnamon because it helps cover the seaweed taste. You can use fresh-pressed, unfiltered apple juice for a healthier option. The cinnamon sticks give it extra anti-oxidants and antimicrobial properties. You could use cinnamon powder if preferred, but I wanted to minimize the powder added to prevent a gritty taste.
A lot of sea moss gummy recipes call for making sea moss gel first. Since the powdered version is much more shelf stable and faster, I opted for it instead.
The easiest option is to pour the whole mixture into an 8×8 glass dish and then cut it into squares. If you want to make some fun shapes for the kids though, there are plenty of cute silicone mold options. Whatever you choose, they’re packed with delicious apple cinnamon flavor!
Have you ever tried sea moss before? What benefits did you notice? Leave a comment and let me know!
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Katie Wells, CTNC, MCHC, Founder of Wellness Mama and Co-founder of Wellnesse, has a background in research, journalism, and nutrition. As a mom of six, she turned to research and took health into her own hands to find answers to her health problems. WellnessMama.com is the culmination of her thousands of hours of research and all posts are medically reviewed and verified by the Wellness Mama research team. Katie is also the author of the bestselling books The Wellness Mama Cookbook and The Wellness Mama 5-Step Lifestyle Detox.
Hey how long would these last in say the fridge? I know sea moss gel lasts solidly a month in the fridge if sealed, and longer in the freezer, but with these gummies containing fresh juice? Thanks for any advice or suggestions
These should last for about 2 weeks in the fridge if you’re using bottled apple juice. If you’re using fresh juice they should last for several days and up to a week refrigerated.
Wondering what the serving size is?
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