Scientifically known as Sargassum fusiforme, hijiki is a seaweed type that grows along the coastlines of Korea, Japan and China. When cultivated its’ usually dull green or brown and will appear in the form of small buds resembling black tea or small dry twigs when harvested.

A staple food in many Asian cultural dishes, hijiki is also highly versatile because it dries rapidly while maintaining most of its nutritional content.

The seaweed is highly popular in Japan because it’s widely available and easy to prepare. Its health benefits are also widely recognized.

Hijiki is rich in essential minerals such as magnesium, calcium and iron as well as dietary fiber. It has been used for many centuries to restore health and beauty. Regular consumption allegedly yields thick, black lustrous hair.

What are the Health Benefits of Hijiki?

Hormone Support

Though iodine’s importance in diet is rarely addressed, it still remains crucial in keeping bodily functions on track. Iodine facilitates hormonal balance in the body through its interaction with the thyroid gland. This is one of the most crucial aspects of the endocrine system. While consuming too much iodine is certainly detrimental, most people don’t get enough. Hijiki can be a good source of this vital dietary component.

Aids Digestion

Being the ultimate green leafy vegetable, seaweeds like hijiki are packed with dietary fiber. Regular consumption would thus ensure that the digestive process is both smooth and healthy.

It’s known to stimulate peristalsis, the mechanism that moves matter through the digestive track. This not only helps maximize nutrient absorption, but also reduces constipation. The high fiber content in hijiki helps eliminate excess cholesterol from the body’s cardiovascular system, which balances insulin and glucose levels in the body.

Delivers Natural Energy

Hijiki contains unusually high iron levels, with some varieties containing about 5 times the amount found in chicken liver. As such, incorporating hijiki into diet would help prevent anemia. Iron is an essential component of red blood cells which helps increase oxygenation, thus boosting energy levels.

For this reason, hijiki is also great for vegetarians and vegans as iron is hard to get in a meatless diet.

Bone Support

Inevitably, most people’s bones will weaken with age. With a proper intake of minerals however, this can be prevented. Consuming hijiki would thus help suppress osteoporosis since it contains more calcium than milk, which is considered an ideal dietary source of the mineral.

Promotes Better Sleep

For many years, magnesium has been widely regarded as an effective sleeping aid. This is mainly because it facilitates the production of certain hormones that help release stress and induce relaxation. This naturally leads to restful sleep. Due to the high magnesium levels in hijiki, one can use it as a late-night snack if they have trouble falling asleep.

Hijiki Side Effects

In spite of all these health benefits, hijiki is known to have an excessively high level of inorganic arsenic, a substance that both carcinogenic and toxic to humans. Exposure to high levels is also linked with liver damage and gastrointestinal issues.

Still, it would require an extremely high amount of hijiki to accumulate enough arsenic to present a health issue. Some countries have however cautioned their citizens from consuming too much of the vegetable.

Exceedingly too much iodine consumption can be just as bad as too little. Problems like hyperthyroidism are often as a result of too much intake of iodine-rich foods like hijiki.

Other possible side effects include interaction with medication like blood thinners, usually because of the high vitamin K content. Hijiki could thus present a host of health problems if consumed excessively. As with everything else, it would be advisable to eat it in moderation.

Incorporating Hijiki Into Diet

Generally, hijiki is normally prepared in the form of a home-cooked meal. Most restaurants usually don’t serve dishes containing the seaweed. In East Asia, hijiki is normally chopped and mixed with salads, stir fries and seafood dishes.

A good way to eat it is to mix it with traditional vegetables or fish. It can also be added to foods that have been boiled, steamed, marinated in fish/soy sauce or cooked in oil.

Hijiki can also be combined with rice for sushi, although it doesn’t go well as a wrap to prepare the same. Generally, one can add the seaweed to just about anything they feel like.

Some green powder drink products that are readily available online and in most nutrition outlets also contain hijiki extracts.

In a nutshell, hijiki is a highly beneficial vegetable that’s not only rich in vital nutrients, but also carries a host of health benefits.

When consumed in moderation, it doesn’t pose any health risk. Nevertheless, it’s important to choose sea vegetables wisely and only shop from accredited outlets.

Caution should also be observed in preparation prior to cooking; hijiki should be properly cleaned and soaked before it can be used. This basically involves washing, soaking in warm water for about 15 minutes, rinsing well then discarding the soaking water.

A common seaweed in Japan, Korea and certain parts of China, Kombu is fast gaining popularity for its nutritional value. Although it is best known as the key ingredient in dashi, this edible kelp is a rich source of minerals essential for good health.

What are the Health Benefits of Kombu?

Kombu kelp is a reliable provider of minerals, vitamins and other important nutrients. It contains significant amounts of calcium, iron, iodine and soluble fiber.

Bone and Dental Protection

One of the biggest health benefits of Kombu is its’ high levels of calcium. An ounce of kelp meets 12% of the required daily amount. Adding it to your diet can strengthen bones and strengthen teeth to maintain good dental health. Kombu is also a great alternative source of calcium for vegans and lactose intolerant individuals.

Rich Source of Iron

With iron deficiencies on the rise, there are more cases of people suffering from anemia than ever before. If this is a problem, incorporating Kombu into your daily menu can help. Increasing iron intake can eliminate symptoms of deficiency, which include fatigue, shortness of breath and dry nails.

Improved Digestion

Kombu is loaded with soluble fiber. This dietary fiber absorbs water in the digestive tract to relieve constipation and regulate bowel movements. It also gives a satiating feeling, which makes it a great food for weight loss.

Supports Metabolism

Because Kombu has plenty of iodine, it is able to boost thyroid function and improve metabolism. Iodine also builds the body’s natural resistance to cancer and a range of other illnesses.

Increases Wellness

In addition to the mentioned nutrients, Kombu contains varying quantities of vitamins B, C, D and E. It has also been found to contain traces of germanium, magnesium and zinc. All these nutrients enhance organ function, immunity, muscle agility and general wellness.

What are the Side Effects of Kombu?

Despite its list of health advantages, Kombu can have adverse side effects when it is not consumed properly. The most common is hyperthyroidism – a condition in which the thyroid becomes overactive as a result of consuming too much iodine.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight changes, abnormal heart rate and loose stools. You may also experience fatigue and excessive sweating. It is therefore advised to seek medical attention if you have any or all of these symptoms.

Pregnant women should avoid consuming Kombu altogether. Although it was once used to induce labor, its safety is now questionable. This seaweed is associated with cervical rupture and infections. Please do not use unless instructed otherwise by a medical professional.

If you are currently taking potassium supplements, digoxin, thyroid medication or ACE inhibitors, refrain from eating Kombu until you have finished your regimen. Combining kelp with prescription drugs and supplements can have serious consequences on your health.

Patients with existing kidney and thyroid disorders, and goiter should not use Kombu as treatment unless it is administered by a qualified physician. If used incorrectly, it can make health conditions worse.

How Can Kombu Be Ingested?

A popular flavoring agent, Kombu is often added to dashi, salads and a variety of meat dishes. To get the most out this nutritious food, it is important to learn how to choose, prepare and cook it.

How to Choose Kombu

The quality of seaweed you choose will determine the health benefits of Kombu you receive. Raw or fresh Kombu is preferred as it contains the highest amounts of nutrients. However, frozen, dried and pickled varieties have a longer shelf life.

The best Kombu is very dark in color. They are often sold in sheets or strips you can easily add to miso soup, legumes and salads. It is also a common ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

How to Prepare Kombu

Before cooking, rinse Kombu under running water for 30 seconds to a minute. Let it sit in warm water for 10-15 minutes or until soft. Once softened, you can chop and cook with meals. If you are making dashi, start by wiping its surface with a damp cloth and soak in water for at least 10 hours before adding it to soup.

How to Cook Kombu

Fresh Kombu can be steamed, grilled, baked and pan-fried. While some prefer to eat it raw, heat softens it for easier consumption. Dried varieties can be used as a replacement for salt and seasoning. They are also ideal for making dashi soup.

Pickled seaweed make excellent teas. You can also use it as a sauce for meats and seafood, and as snacks between meals.

You can find delicious, healthy green drink powders from providers like Patriot Power Greens that contain quality Kombu extract.

Many people find the convenience of getting sea vegetables, land vegetables, algae and grasses all in one green drink formula to be far more efficient than trying to purchase them individually and incorporate them in a regular diet.