Kombu
Kombu is a type of seaweed (kelp) that etymologically originated in Japan but is prevalent in most Asian Countries. It is edible and included in several diets across the world. The Japanese diet has included Kombu for almost 1500 years.
Varieties of Kombu
These are the four primary widely used forms
- Dried Kombu
- Pickled Kombu (Contains Vinegar)
- Dried Shred Kombu
- Fresh/ Raw Kombu
Nutritional Facts of Kombu
According to the USDA, 100g of Kombu possesses the following nutritional properties.
Energy: 243 kcal
Proteins: 14.3 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42.9 g
- Fibre: 14.3 g
- Sugars: 0 g
- Sodium: 2300 mg
- Iron: 15.4 mg
- Calcium: 857 mg
- Vitamin A: 714 IU
- Vitamin C: 17.1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Kombu is known to possess extremely high contents of micronutrients like iodine. As iodine is vital for development and growth, Kombu is a good source. But, consuming large amounts of Kombu will lead to increased Iodine levels in the body, which can cause severe disorders. Thus, one should consume it in appropriate quantities. Besides Iodine and Sodium, Kombu also contains several vitamins like vitamin C, A, vitamin K, B5, etc. These can contribute significantly to the daily intake value.
The Healthify Me Note
Kombu contains a reasonable amount of protein, which can help you meet your daily protein requirements. In addition, it has minimal fats, making it healthy for weight management. Although Kombu mainly contains carbohydrates, these carbohydrates would not make you gain weight. Therefore, it is suitable for most weight loss plans.
Rich in Vitamin K
Kombu contains a good amount of vitamin K, contributing to the daily intake value. Vitamin K aids in the blood coagulation or clotting process. Therefore, it can eventually improve blood quality. Vitamin K can also impact calcium in the body and boost your bones’ strength.
High Fibre Content
Kombu contains fibre that aids in digestion and maintains bowel movement. Thus, you need not worry about irregular bowel movements while consuming Kombu. This fibre content also prevents diabetes and can promote heart health.
Contains Amino Acids
Kombu contains glutamic acid- alpha-amino acid. This amino acid acts as a precursor or a pioneer of protein synthesis in the ribosomes. Thus, it is of great importance to the body. Also, this amino acid is what gives the Umami taste to Kombu. Additionally, glutamic acid helps break down the carbohydrates in beans. Also, this helps to prevent gas formation.
Nutritional Benefits of Kombu
Owing to the constituents mentioned above, Kombu possesses several health benefits. Although, active research with complete evidence can substantiate whether seaweed can benefit your body. With seaweed, the process of manufacturing the product is tedious. Hence, the health benefits are not entirely clear. More human-based studies are required to confirm these benefits. Even then, some health benefits observed by the people who consume Kombu regularly are listed below.Rich in Potassium
Kombu contains a good amount of potassium as well. This potassium helps maintain the blood pressure level and improves the quality of the blood. Also, potassium helps in muscle formation. It also regulates the nervous system of the body.
Fat-Free
By observing the USDA research, we can conclude that a serving of Kombu does not contain fats. Hence, one can use it in keto or other diets to help lose weight. Nevertheless, you must be cautious of choosing the recipe as the recipe may contain variable amounts of fats.
Since Kombu is a popular food in Japan, you can witness these benefits in most Japanese populations. In addition, most studies show that certain sections of the Japanese population experience well-developed bones and increased lifespan and other distinguishing features compared to other countries due to the regular consumption of Kombu (seaweed) which contains high amounts of iodine.