Sweet Kelp was also known as the ‘Poor Man’s weather glass’ as it was used to help predict the weather; when the humidity increases the plant has a tendency to go limp, and when the humidity decreases it becomes dry and brittle.
Sweet kelp is packed with a wide range of minerals, vitamins and trace elements. Sweet Kelp is a good source of protein (6-11%) as well as iron, calcium, vitamins C and E and magnesium. Magnesium has been found to help inhibit the processes which cause high blood pressure. It can be used as a stimulant for the thyroid gland as the high iodine content helps to regulate thyroid function. As the thyroid regulates the body’s metabolism sweet kelp may be a useful tool to aid weight loss and to increase energy levels. Please note that as Kelp is so packed with iodine, moderate amounts should only be consumed to ensure your intake is within the recommended amounts.
Eaten as a low calorie snack this delicate and mild flavoured sea vegetable is delicious. However, it is also an extremely versatile seaweed in cooking, as it can be used in all dishes sweet and savoury as well as soups, chowders, stews or salads and even added to bread or pizza dough. Sweet kelp can be soaked, marinated and then baked in the oven to make homemade healthy crisps. It can also be used as a condiment for a variety of dishes including meats, vegetables. cheeses and fish.