Sea Moss also known as Irish Moss is a type of seaweed or algae. These red algae extract carrageenan, a substance used as a thickener in the manufacture of ice cream, cottage cheese, jelly, toothpaste, and shoe polish. It has recently gained popularity as it is promoted as a superfood. What are sea moss benefits for men? Does it have side effects? Let’s find out.
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Sea Moss Nutrition
Sea moss is a nutritional powerhouse and it contains 92 of the 102 minerals in the human body. The minerals in sea moss supply energy, detoxify the body, regulate digestion, and much more. Research says that sea moss has probiotic effects. Moreover, it has a high fiber content and is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Sea Moss Benefits for Men
1. Increased Testosterone Levels
Studies show that zinc and testosterone levels are interrelated. Zinc helps in the synthesis of testosterone, the male hormone. Sea moss is a good source of zinc and increases testosterone levels naturally in men. An increase in testosterone helps to increase bone density, sperm production, and red blood cell production. It is also responsible for the growth of facial and body hair in men.
2. Muscle Building and Repair
Sea moss is rich in Taurine, an amino acid that helps in muscle-building. Moreover, it reduces muscular fatigue while exercising. Workouts cause micro-tears in your muscles. Amino acids help them in recovery and repair. It not only helps to maintain muscle health but also helps to build muscles.
3. Improved Libido
The nutrients in sea moss work together to promote your overall body and sexual health. Moreover, it increases the blood flow to the genital area. This not only improves arousal and makes erections stronger but also heightens sensitivity and sexual pleasure. The increase in testosterone levels also helps in improving libido.
4. Better Prostate Health
Prostate issues are common in men after 50 years of age. Maintaining prostate health is crucial as it produces seminal fluid, facilitating the movement of sperm and ensuring the proper function of the urethra, the passage for urine outflow from the body. Prostate issues can lead to a burning sensation while urinating, joint pain, and kidney diseases. The minerals in sea moss, especially zinc, protect prostate health. Sea moss reduces the risk of prostate enlargement and other related urinary problems.
5. Reduced Risk of Heart Diseases
Like all other seaweeds, sea moss is the best plant source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for cardiovascular health. Studies suggest that sea moss has blood thinning and cholesterol-balancing abilities. It also helps in maintaining healthy blood pressure. This reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. Moreover, the antioxidants protect against the free radicals in your body. Regular consumption of sea moss will improve your cardiovascular health.
6. Slowing Down of Parkinson’s Disease
It has been proven that the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease is twice as high in men than in women. It is a degenerative disease that causes tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and impaired balance. There is no cure for the disease. However, early research shows that sea moss can slow down the worsening of the symptoms of the disease.
7. Increased Fertility in Men
Sea moss enhances the quality of sperm which increases the chances of successful fertilization. Its folate content increases men’s sperm count too. Moreover, its zinc content solves issues like erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. This improves overall sexual function and fertility.
8. Better Mood
Life today has become very stressful. This causes anxiety, depression, and other mental issues. Sea moss contains magnesium and potassium that regulate the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin. Serotonin is responsible for good mood and a happy feeling that helps relieve stress. Improved mental health is one of the benefits of sea moss.
9. Enhanced Athletic Performance
Its high nutritional content boosts energy, supports muscle recovery, and increases stamina. This results in an enhancement in overall performance in sports activities. Moreover, sea moss is rich in electrolytes that keep your body hydrated. Hydration is important for athletic performance because it keeps you focused and reduces the chances of cramps and dizziness.
10. Reduced hair loss
Baldness is more common in men. Sea moss contains a lot of minerals that reduce hair loss and promote hair growth. It strengthens hair follicles and improves scalp health. As it provides the necessary nourishment needed for healthy hair, the chances of hair loss are decreased.
Experts have proved that sea moss is beneficial to overall health in many ways. However, it may have some negative effects too. What are they?
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Sea Moss Side Effects
- Sea moss is rich in iodine. Excessive iodine can cause thyroid dysfunction. Men with thyroid disorders like hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism should consult a healthcare professional before including sea moss in their diet.
- Carrageenan, a compound in sea moss, may cause inflammation in the digestive tract. This can cause bloating, inflammation, and irritable bowel syndrome. It is also linked with stomach ulcers.
- Some people may develop serious allergic effects like itching, rashes, and breathing difficulties. Individuals with a history of allergies to seafood should be cautious in taking sea moss. If you experience any allergic reactions, you should seek immediate medical attention.
- Sea moss growing in contaminated water can cause health risks. For example, if the water is contaminated with metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, etc. sea moss has the potential to absorb it. Exposure to heavy metal contamination causes potential health hazards.
- It may interact with medications like immune support medications, IBD medications, thyroid medications, and irregular heart rhythm medications.
Sea moss offers a myriad of health benefits for men as it is a rich source of a wide array of minerals and vitamins. However, you should use it moderately. Overconsumption of sea moss can cause health risks and side effects. Research and studies related to sea moss are in the early stages. So, it is always better to consult a medical care provider before incorporating sea moss into your diet, especially if you have any health issues or are taking any medications.
