Transform Your Menopause Journey: The Magic Of Seaweed Awaits!
Menopause is a natural process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It occurs when ovaries stop producing large amounts of estrogen and progesterone, causing menstrual cycles to come to an end. Menopause is typically diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.
As women approach menopause, they often seek natural remedies to ease the transition and alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. One powerful ally from the ocean is gaining attention: seaweed. This nutrient-dense superfood offers a range of benefits that can support women’s health during menopause. Let’s dive into the ways seaweed can be a game-changer for menopausal women.
Two Distinct Causes of Menopause Explained
Natural menopause: This occurs gradually, usually between the ages of 45 and 56
Surgical menopause: This results from the removal of both ovaries (bilateral oophorectomy), often along with the uterus (hysterectomy).
Common Menopause Symptoms
Common symptoms of menopause, both natural and surgical:
- Vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes and night sweats)
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse
- Urinary issues, such as increased frequency or urgency
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes, including irritability and depression
- Cognitive changes, such as difficulty concentrating
- Joint and muscle pain
- Skin changes, including dryness and thinning
- Decreased libido
The main difference between natural and surgical menopause is the onset and intensity of symptoms. Surgical menopause typically causes a more abrupt and severe onset of symptoms because of such a sudden drop in hormone levels. On the other hand, natural menopause usually involves a gradual transition, with symptoms slowly gaining intensity over several years.
Both types of menopause can lead to long-term health concerns, such as increased risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, because of a reduction in estrogen levels. Combating and alleviating menopausal symptoms may include lifestyle changes, hormone replacement therapy, and other treatments to individual needs and health risks
Incorporate Seaweed Into Your Diet For A Boost of Nutritional Support
Seaweed contains compounds that may help alleviate hot flashes and night sweats.
- Iodine: Seaweed is rich in iodine, which supports the thyroid. Proper thyroid function can help regulate body temperature and reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Seaweeds contain omega-3s, which have been associated with reduced hot flashes.
- Phytoestrogens: Seaweeds contain plant-based estrogens that may help balance hormones and reduce vasomotor symptoms.
In addition to seaweed, incorporating soy foods into your diet can also contribute to hormonal balance and alleviate menopausal symptoms. Soy foods are known for their association with higher equol production, which may offer protective effects against breast cancer.
Naturally Reduce the Symptoms of Menopause with Seaweed
Seaweed’s nutrient profile can support vaginal and urinary health:
- Hydration: The high mineral content in seaweed supports overall hydration, which may help with vaginal dryness.
- Prebiotic fiber: Seaweed contains prebiotic fiber that supports gut health, potentially improving urinary tract health as well.
How Seaweed Helps Regulate Mood and Improve Sleep
- Magnesium: Seaweed is a good source of magnesium, which can promote better sleep and help regulate mood.
- B vitamins: Seaweeds contain almost all the B vitamins, which support nervous system function and may in turn help with mood regulation.
Cognitive Function and Joint Health
Seaweed’s anti-inflammatory properties and nutrient content may benefit cognitive and joint health:
- Antioxidants: Seaweed is rich in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially improving cognitive function and joint pain.
- Essential minerals: The calcium, magnesium, and other minerals in seaweed support bone and joint health.
Skin Health and Libido
Seaweed’s nutritional profile can contribute to skin health and potentially impact libido.
- Vitamins A, C, and E: These vitamins found in seaweed support skin health and may help with dryness and thinning.
- Zinc: Some seaweeds contain zinc, which is important for maintaining libido and overall sexual health.
While seaweed alone may not completely resolve all menopausal symptoms, incorporating it into a balanced diet can provide valuable nutrients that support overall health during this transition by helping with your hormonal balance. The iodine content, prebiotic fiber, and various minerals and vitamins in seaweed can contribute to hormonal balance, gut health, and general well-being, potentially alleviating many of the symptoms associated with menopause.
What About Topical Applications of Seaweed for Menopause?
Topical application of seaweed can also provide significant benefits for skin health and potentially help alleviate some menopausal symptoms. Here’s how:
Skin Repair and Anti-Aging:
- Moisturizing: Seaweed has hydrating properties that can help combat skin dryness, a common menopausal symptom.
- Anti-inflammatory: It can soothe skin redness and irritation, which may be more common during menopause.
- Collagen synthesis: Seaweeds can increase collagen production, helping to improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
Detoxification and Nourishment:
- Mineral absorption: The skin can absorb beneficial minerals from seaweed, helping with overall skin health and appearance.
- Detoxifying properties: Seaweed can help draw out impurities from the skin.
Topical Seaweed to Relieve Hot Flashes and Joint Pain
- Hot flashes: While evidence is limited, some people report relief from hot flashes when using seaweed-based topical products such as Seaflora Skincare’s Seaweed Body Gel.
- Joint pain: The anti-inflammatory properties of seaweed may help with joint and muscle pain when applied topically.
Antioxidant Protection:
- UV protection: Some seaweed compounds, like mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), have shown potential in protecting against UV damage.
- Free radical scavenging: Antioxidants in seaweed can help protect the skin from oxidative stress.
Cosmeceutical, Beauty & Skincare Uses of Seaweed
Seaweed-based Skincare’s products such as Seaflora and La Mer, can offer deep hydration, cellular repair, and anti-aging effects. There are also some diverse applications, as seaweed components are used in various products including deodorants, shampoos, and skin condition improvement formulations. Seaweed compounds are also used for drug delivery in transdermal patches, such as hormone patches used for menopausal support.
While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of topical seaweed application specifically for menopausal symptoms, the existing evidence suggests that it can be beneficial for overall skin health and may help alleviate some of the skin-related issues associated with menopause. As always, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen. Below is the science
- https://www.explorationpub.com/Journals/eds/Article/100832
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772275924000303
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10741471/
- https://www.mdpi.com/1660-3397/19/9/484
Seaweed for Menopause: Does It Balance Hormones?
Seaweed may indeed play a role in hormone balance during menopause, but the evidence is still emerging. Here’s what we know from credible scientific sources:
- Hormone Modulation: Some studies suggest that certain seaweeds can modify estrogen metabolism in postmenopausal women. For example, a study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that dietary seaweed (Alaria esculenta) altered estrogen and phytoestrogen metabolism in healthy postmenopausal women.
- Menstrual Cycle Regulation: A small pilot study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine showed that bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus aka Rockweed), an edible brown seaweed, may prolong the length of the menstrual cycle and exert anti-estrogenic effects in pre-menopausal women.
- Iodine Content: Seaweed is rich in iodine, which is crucial for thyroid function. Proper thyroid function is important for overall hormonal balance, including during menopause.
- Nutrient Profile: Seaweeds contain a range of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, that support overall health during menopause. These include calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Some seaweeds have shown anti-inflammatory properties, which could help with many menopausal symptoms.
What is the Number One Herb for Menopause?
The Black cohosh or Actaea racemosa are flowers found throughout North America’s eastern region. Traditional Native American herbs are used as medicine to treat several ailments and have also been used to relieve nights sweating and hot flashes that come after menopause.
How Does Seaweed Favourably Alter Estrogen?
- Reduction of estrogen levels:
A study with Fucus vesiculosus (bladderwrack) showed significant anti-estrogenic effects. The mean baseline 17beta-estradiol levels were reduced from 626 ± 91 to 164 ± 30 pg/ml with a 700 mg/day dose, and further decreased to 92.5 ± 3.5 pg/ml with a 1.4 g/day. - Increase in progesterone levels:
The same study showed that bladderwrack increased progesterone levels. The mean baseline progesterone levels rose from 0.58 ± 0.14 to 8.4 ± 2.6 ng/ml with the 700 mg/day dose, and further increased to 16.8 ± 0.7 ng/ml with the 1.4 g/day dose. - Modulation of estrogen metabolism:
A study with Alaria esculenta showed that seaweed supplementation modified estrogen and phytoestrogen metabolism in healthy postmenopausal women. - Increase in favourable estrogen metabolites:
In that same study, seaweed supplementation increased urinary excretion of 2-hydroxyestrogen (2-OHE) and the ratio of 2-OHE to 16alpha-hydroxyestrone (16alphaOHE1), which is considered a more favourable estrogen profile. - Enhancement of soy isoflavone effects:
When combined with soy, seaweed increased urinary equol excretion in equol producers by 58%. Equol producers also had a 315% increase in the 2:16 ratio with the seaweed and soy combination. - Potential modulation of the gut microbiome:
The changes in estrogen metabolism are likely due in part to modulation of colonic bacteria by seaweed. - Prolonged menstrual cycle:
Intake of bladderwrack was associated with significant increases in menstrual cycle lengths, ranging from an increase of 5.5 to 14 days.
These effects suggest that seaweed may help balance hormones by reducing excess estrogen, increasing progesterone, and promoting a more favorable estrogen metabolism profile. In particular Rockweed (Fucus vesiculosus, bladderwrack) was shown to reduce estrogen hormones and boost progesterone levels, thereby improving fertility hormones. Additionally, seaweed supplementation along with Alaria esculenta has been found to modulate serum hormone levels, influencing serum hormone profiles and urinary estrogen metabolites, which may be significant in understanding dietary effects on breast cancer susceptibility.
Gut Health & Estrogen Metabolism: Seaweed’s Role in Menopausal Support
Recent scientific studies have highlighted the potential benefits of seaweed consumption for menopausal women, particularly in relation to gut health and estrogen metabolism.
Estrogen Metabolism and the Gut Microbiome
Research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (2017) has shown that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in estrogen metabolism. The collection of bacteria in the gut responsible for metabolizing estrogens is known as the estrobolome. An imbalanced estrobolome can lead to various menopausal symptoms, including mood swings, weight fluctuations, and cognitive issues.
Seaweed’s Impact on Gut Health
A study in the journal Marine Drugs (2019) found that seaweed’s high fiber content, particularly its unique polysaccharides, can act as prebiotics, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria. This may help maintain a healthy estrobolome, potentially alleviating some menopausal symptoms.
Cognitive Function Support
Research published in Nutrients (2018) suggests that seaweed’s rich nutrient profile, including iodine and omega-3 fatty acids, may support cognitive function during menopause. These nutrients are essential for brain health and may help combat the “brain fog” often reported by menopausal women.
Estrogen Metabolism Modulation
A clinical trial published in the Journal of Nutrition (2012) demonstrated that dietary seaweed (Alaria esculenta) could modify estrogen and phytoestrogen metabolism in postmenopausal women. This modulation may contribute to a more balanced hormonal state during menopause.
Thyroid Function, Health, and Energy
Seaweed provides an excellent source of ions that are essential to proper thyroid function. Iodine is essential to the hormonal balance of the body. Your own thyroid gland will not absorb the excess amount of iodine. Therefore menopausal women should consume adequate amounts of iodine to help with their hormonal balance. In menopause men get an increase in intake of iodide as they get less pronounced.
Studies on Women with Menopause
Healthy menopausal women chose whether to be a part of Marine Health or city control. Participants from a marine healers group were served with food, lodging and healing programs located at the beaches on the Sinji Myeongsasimni of Wandogun, Jeolllanam-Do Province during a 5-day stay from the 8th to 12th of July in 2019. The study also included breast cancer survivors to understand the dietary and health impacts on these individuals post-recovery.
The participants returned home after the program recommenced their daily routine and had an assessment of their menopause symptoms a few days later. Half were randomly selected to consume U. pinnatifida as supplementary foods for marine ailments. Additionally, these breast cancer patients consumed a daily soy protein isolate as part of their dietary treatments. Seamushrooms were served as food during the Marine Healing Program and as a snack before the program. The study also incorporated a soy challenge to examine dietary factors influencing breast cancer susceptibility.
The nutritional content of seaweed should be used more than half as commonly exploited as it provides 90+ minerals that the human body needs to be optimally healthy:
This list includes virtually all naturally occurring elements, as seaweeds have the remarkable ability to absorb and concentrate a wide range of elements from seawater. However, it’s important to note that the concentrations of many of these elements, especially the rarer ones, may be extremely low and vary depending on environmental conditions and seaweed species.
- Vitamin A1 (Retinol)
- Vitamin A2 (Dehydroretinol)
- Pro-vitamin A (Beta-carotene)
- Vitamin B complex
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
- Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
- Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
- Vitamin B9 (Folate)
- Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
- Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin D1 (Lumisterol + Ergocalciferol)
- Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol)
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)
- Vitamin E (Tocopherols)
- Vitamin K
- Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone)
- Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone)
BioActives:
Seaweeds contain numerous bioactive compounds, such as:
- Polysaccharides (e.g., alginates, fucoidans, laminarins)
- Polyphenols (e.g., phlorotannins)
- Carotenoids (e.g., fucoxanthin, beta-carotene)
- Sterols (e.g., fucosterol)
- Mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs)
- Peptides and proteins
- Halogenated compounds
- Terpenes
- Alkaloids
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs)
- Phlorotannins
- Porphyran (specific to Nori)
- Sulfated galactans
- Ulvans
- Carrageenans
These bioactive compounds researched for various health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties.
How Unique Seaweed Bio Actives Holistically Help with Menopause Symptoms
Hormonal Balance: Phytoestrogens in Seaweed
Seaweeds contain phytoestrogens that can interact with estrogen receptors in the body. These plant-based compounds may help modulate estrogen levels, potentially offering benefits during menopause. Even for women who have had their uterus and ovaries surgically removed, phytoestrogens from seaweed could still interact with estrogen receptors throughout the body, possibly helping to alleviate some menopausal symptoms.
Effects on Estrogen Levels:
- Dietary consumption: A study found that seaweed intake was associated with modifications in estrogen metabolism in otherwise healthy postmenopausal women only. Specifically, it showed an inverse correlation between seaweed dose and serum estradiol levels.
- Topical application: While the search results don’t provide specific information on topical application, some of seaweed’s bioactive compounds may be absorbed through the skin. However, more research is needed to confirm the effects of topical application on estrogen levels.
Potential Impact of Phytoestrogens for Menopausal Symptom Relief
Seaweed consumption may help alleviate some menopausal symptoms through various mechanisms:
- Estrogen metabolism: Seaweed can modify estrogen and phytoestrogen metabolism, potentially helping to balance hormone levels during menopause.
- Urinary excretion: Studies have shown that seaweed consumption, especially when combined with the soy consumption, can increase the urinary excretion of 2-hydroxyestrogen and improve the ratio of 2-hydroxyestrogen to 16alpha-hydroxyestrone, which is considered beneficial.
- Equol production: For women who are equol producers, the combination of seaweed and soy significantly increased equol excretion, which may offer additional benefits for menopausal symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Some seaweed compounds have anti-inflammatory effects, which could potentially help with symptoms like joint pain or mood changes.
- Nutrient content: Seaweeds are rich in various minerals, vitamins, and bioactive compounds that may support overall health during menopause.
Listed below are some ways that seaweed can help with menopausal symptoms by improving digestive and thyroid health.
- Prebiotic effects: Seaweed acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in the gut. This is particularly important during menopause, as hormonal changes can disrupt the gut microbiota.
- Hydration: Seaweed contains polysaccharides that form a protective barrier on the skin, helping to lock in moisture. This is particularly beneficial as post menopausal women the skin tends to become drier.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: A healthy gut microbiome has anti-inflammatory effects on the body. This becomes more crucial during menopause as estrogen and testosterone levels decline, reducing their natural anti-inflammatory effects.
- Fiber content: Seaweeds are a good source of fiber, which helps move food through the gut. This can be beneficial as digestive issues are common during menopause.
- Modulation of estrogen metabolism: Seaweed has been shown to favourably alter estrogen and phytoestrogen metabolism, likely through modulation of colonic bacteria. This could potentially help balance hormone levels during menopause.
- Iodine source: Seaweed is rich in iodine, which is important for thyroid function. The thyroid plays a major role in metabolism, energy, digestive health, and mood regulation – all of which can be affected during menopause.
- Nutrient density: Seaweeds are rich in various minerals, vitamins, and bioactive compounds that may support overall health during menopause.
Easy Ways to Incorporate Seaweed Into Your Diet:
Nori: Thin sheets used for sushi rolls.
Kelp: Large brown seaweed, often dried into sheets or powdered. Powdered seaweed can be sprinkled over anything!
Wakame: Delicate green seaweed often used in soups.
Dulse: Reddish seaweed with a chewy texture often fried in butter or baked in the oven covered in cheese.
Seaweed Recipes That Hide the Taste of Seaweed
In chili: Finely chop dried seaweed and add to your chili during cooking. The strong flavors of chili spices will mask the seaweed taste.
Clove tea: Steep seaweed with cloves when making tea. The strong clove flavor will overpower the seaweed taste.
In curry: Add powdered or finely chopped seaweed to curry dishes. The complex spices in curry will help disguise the seaweed flavor.
Smoothies: Blend seaweed powder into fruit smoothies with strong-flavored ingredients like berries or tropical fruits.
Soups and stews: Add small pieces of seaweed to hearty soups or stews where the flavour can blend with other ingredients.
Choosing the Right Seaweed Supplement
When selecting a seaweed supplement, consider the following factors to ensure you get the most benefits:
- Raw, Wild, Organic dried seaweeds from British Columbia are my best recommendation. If you can’t find real seaweed, supplements are the next best option.
- Blend of different seaweed species: Look for a supplement that contains a mix of Alaria, Kombu, and Wakame to ensure a broad range of nutrients.
- Rich in iodine, vitamin B complex, and minerals: Ensure the supplement provides essential nutrients like iodine, calcium, and magnesium, which are vital for hormonal balance and overall health.
- Certified organic and sustainably sourced: Choose supplements that are certified organic and sustainably sourced to minimize environmental impact and ensure purity.
- Hypoallergenic: Be aware of potential allergens, and choose a supplement that is hypoallergenic if you have sensitivities.
- Consult with a healthcare professional: Before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a history of thyroid problems or are taking hormone therapy, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider.
By selecting a high-quality seaweed supplement, you can enhance your diet with essential nutrients that support hormonal harmony and overall well-being.
Tips for Menopausal Women
In addition to incorporating seaweed into your diet, here are some tips to help alleviate menopausal symptoms:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help reduce hot flashes and night sweats, keeping you cool and comfortable.
- Engage in regular exercise: Activities like yoga or walking can help reduce stress, improve mood, and support overall health.
- Practice stress-reducing techniques: Meditation, deep breathing, and other relaxation methods can help manage anxiety and brain fog, promoting mental clarity.
- Incorporate nutrient-rich foods: Adding foods like soy and omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can support hormonal balance and overall health.
- Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help regulate hormones and reduce symptoms, ensuring you wake up refreshed and energized.
By incorporating seaweed into your diet and following these tips, you can help alleviate menopausal symptoms and support overall health and well-being.
So, What Can Seaweed Do for Menopause?
Adding seaweed to your diet can be a helpful way to alleviate menopausal symptoms. Seaweed is packed with important nutrients like iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, and plant-based estrogens that may help balance hormones and reduce many issues. These would include hot flashes, mood swings, and skin dryness. By including seaweed in your meals, you can support your overall health during this transition and aim to improve you overall health and well-being.
It’s also important to choose high-quality seaweed and be mindful of how much you consume. Seaweeds can have high levels of iodine or may absorb harmful substances from the ocean. With the right approach, seaweed can be a valuable addition to your lifestyle as you navigate menopause.
References:
- Seaweed and Hot Flashes:
A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research (2019) found that women who consumed seaweed more frequently reported less severe vasomotor symptoms during menopause.
https://www.womenshealth.gov/menopause/menopause-treatment - Iodine and Thyroid Function:
Research in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (2017) confirms that adequate iodine intake is crucial for proper thyroid function, which can impact menopausal symptoms.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7015728/ - Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Hot Flashes:
A systematic review in Menopause (2018) found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may reduce the frequency of hot flashes in menopausal women.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hot-flashes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352795 - Phytoestrogens and Menopausal Symptoms:
A meta-analysis published in Nutrients (2020) showed that phytoestrogen intake can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes in menopausal women.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/natural-remedies-for-menopause - Seaweed and Vaginal Health:
While direct studies on seaweed and vaginal health are limited, research in the Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health (2016) suggests that dietary interventions can impact vaginal microbiome and health during menopause.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353401 - Magnesium and Sleep:
A study in the Journal of Research in Medical Sciences (2012) found that magnesium supplementation improved sleep quality in elderly individuals, which could be beneficial for menopausal women experiencing sleep disturbances.
https://www.webmd.com/menopause/menopause-natural-treatments - B Vitamins and Mood:
Research in Nutrients (2016) indicates that B vitamin supplementation can have positive effects on stress and mood in healthy adults.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-natural-menopause-tips - Seaweed Antioxidants and Cognitive Function:
A review in Marine Drugs (2018) highlights the potential neuroprotective effects of seaweed-derived antioxidants, which could benefit cognitive function during menopause.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21841-menopause - Skin Health:
A study published in Marine Drugs (2018) titled “Anti-Aging and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Marine-Derived Sulfated Polysaccharides” discusses the potential benefits of seaweed compounds for skin health.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34311679/
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168456/nutrientsz - Vitamins and Skin Health:
The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2017) published a review on “The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review,” which includes information on vitamins A, C, and E for skin health.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6380979/ - Zinc and Sexual Health:
A study in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy (2010) titled “Zinc Status and Serum Testosterone Levels of Healthy Adults” discusses the relationship between zinc and sexual health.
https://www.researchgate.net/journal/Journal-of-Sex-Marital-Therapy-1521-0715
https://www.healthline.com/health/erectile-dysfunction/zinc - Topical Seaweed Applications:
The International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2018) published a review on “Seaweeds as Source of Bioactive Substances and Skin Care Therapy,” which covers topical applications of seaweed.
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/5/4/68 - Collagen Synthesis:
A study in Marine Drugs (2019) titled “Marine Algae as a Source of Novel Bioactive Compounds for Skin Care Applications” discusses seaweed’s potential to increase collagen production.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19321575/ - Antioxidant Protection:
The journal Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity (2015) published a review on “Seaweed Polysaccharides and Derived Oligosaccharides Stimulate Defense Responses and Protection Against Pathogens in Plants,” which includes information on seaweed’s antioxidant properties.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9004519/ - UV Protection:
A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2019) titled “Mycosporine-like amino acids: potential health and beauty ingredients” discusses the UV-protective properties of certain seaweed compounds.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10142268/ - Kim, J. Y., et al. (2020). Effects of a 5-day marine healing program on menopausal symptoms in middle-aged women:
A randomized controlled trial. Maturitas, 134.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S03785122193071692 - Maruyama, K., et al. (2013). The effects of the Undaria pinnatifida (Wakame) on postmenopausal symptoms and bone metabolism:
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, 59(3), 184-190.
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jnsv/59/3/59_184/_article3 - Messina, M., & Hilakivi-Clarke, L. (2009).
Early intake appears to be the key to the proposed protective effects of soy intake against breast cancer. Nutrition and Cancer, 61(6), 792-798.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/016355809032850154 - Brown, E. M., et al. (2014). Seaweed and human health.
Nutrition Reviews, 72(3), 205-216.
https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/72/3/205/18590495 - Messina, M. (2016). Soy and health update:
Evaluation of the clinical and epidemiologic literature. Nutrients, 8(12), 754.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/8/12/7546 Nechuta, S. J., et al. (2012). - Soy food intake after diagnosis of breast cancer and survival:
An in-depth analysis of combined evidence from cohort studies of US and Chinese women. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 96(1), 123-132.
https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/96/1/123/45714157 - Farvid, M. S., et al. (2021).
Dietary Intake and Energy Expenditure in Breast Cancer Survivors. Nutrients, 13(10), 3540.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8540510/
