Sheppard Law Firm - June 2023

Just A Spoonful of Sea Moss… The Superpowers of This Popular Red Algae When you think of sea moss, you

• Digestion: Sea moss contains soluble fiber, which helps regulate bowel movements. Plus, it helps decrease the amount of harmful bacteria in your gut. • Thyroid Function: Sea moss has abundant amounts of iodine, which is key to the production of the thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism and energy. • Healthy Skin, Hair, and Joints: The high vitamin and mineral content in sea mosses are excellent for skin health and can help prevent hair loss. Plus, sea moss may help reduce the pain caused by arthritis inflammation. • Supports Weight Loss: Sea moss is low in calories but high in fiber, which boosts metabolism and helps you feel full and satisfied longer after eating. Plus, sea moss reduces fatigue during physical activity. The benefits of sea moss are impressive. However, as with any supplement, it’s recommended that you consult with your health care professional before adding sea moss to your diet. If you get the green light to try sea moss, experiment with the best method for you. Sea moss is a powerful superfood that can improve your health — and we all deserve a few more waves of good health in our lives.

probably imagine the green, slimy stuff that floats in water or gets caught in your toes when you’re wading in the ocean. You might even think of seaweed used in sushi and salads. But did you know that sea moss is sold as a health supplement in both powder and pill form?

Sea moss (a red algae, also called Irish Moss) is a type of seaweed that grows year-round in the Atlantic Ocean. Humans have been consuming sea moss for centuries, and it’s been prevalent in the Caribbean. These days, sea moss has piqued the interest of health and wellness gurus and health-conscious consumers for its many potential health benefits. It’s also touted as one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Besides being rich in vitamins and minerals, here are a few reasons why sea moss is worth considering on your quest for healthy living: • Immune Function: Sea moss is high in antioxidants which fight free radicals and protects the body against cellular damage and inflammation.

’ s M e d i c i n

Some of the most delicious produce is at its best in summer, so it’s no surprise that June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month. Selecting just-picked produce at the local farmers market is a hallmark of the season. But despite how much those colors and smells entice us, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in 2022 that only 1 in 10 Americans eat the recommended amounts of fruit and vegetables. Federal guidelines say adults should eat 2–3 cups of vegetables and 1.5–2 cups of fruit daily. The fact that so many adults are falling short is bad news for our health. Much scientific research shows fruits and vegetables reduce our risk of several diseases. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables are associated with a reduced risk of stroke, lower blood pressure, better gastrointestinal health, and even protection against cancer. But most of us know we ought to incorporate more fruit and vegetables into our diets — the problem is doing it. How can you eat more produce without making it a chore? It’s best to start gradually. Begin by having one extra fruit or vegetable a day. You might have a bowl of fruit for breakfast, add fruit to your morning cereal, or pair a small snack with an apple. Another option is slightly cutting How to Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

your dinner portion and adding a side

salad. You can also add vegetables to your regular sandwiches and soups. For those who don’t enjoy fruit and

vegetables, there are also ways to make them more appealing. Try dipping veggies in hummus or another dip or finely shred them and sneak them into your standard meatloaf or pasta sauce. Further, smoothies can mask many flavors. Proximity is also essential. Have you ever bought bags of fruit with the best intentions, placed them in your fridge’s produce drawer, then forgotten all about them? Us too! Therefore, experts recommend you place fruit where you can quickly and regularly see it. If the kitchen counter doesn’t work, try the top shelf of your refrigerator or another location until you see an impact. It will take time, but eating fruit and vegetables will eventually become part of your daily routine. Just remember to go slow and cut yourself a little slack. It’s almost impossible to change your entire diet overnight effectively, but small changes will add up.

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