What is Seaweed? General Facts about Seaweeds

Seaweeds are rich sources of various nutrients and bioactive compounds, which offer several health benefits. They contain high levels of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Seaweeds are particularly rich in iodine, an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid function and overall metabolism. They also contain significant amounts of iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and other trace minerals that are essential for human health. Moreover, seaweeds are known for their bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides, phlorotannins, carotenoids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have been linked to several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Studies have shown that consuming seaweed may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Seaweeds may also improve gut health by acting as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. In the present chapter, the authors focus on briefly summarizing the bioactive properties of secondary metabolites identified from seaweeds and their therapeutic potential as supportive information for the next chapters in this book.