Sea vegetables (seaweed) are edible marine plants and algae. Extremely nutrient-dense, sea vegetables have a mineral content 10 times greater than plants grown in soil and support various aspects of your pet’s health. Rich in fibre, they are highly digestible and support your pet’s gut microbiome.
Seaweed may improve thyroid function, support heart health, reduce insulin resistance, increase energy and help maintain healthy skin and coat. Sea vegetables also aid in detoxification, as they contain natural compounds that help eliminate heavy metals and other toxins from the body.
We recommend the following sea vegetables for your pets:
- Kelp is a type of brown algae, with over 120 species. It’s rich in minerals and vitamins A, B, E, D, and K. Kelp contains sodium alginate, which helps remove heavy metals from your dog’s body and is used in products like toothpaste and ice cream. It’s also packed with antioxidants that protect against free radicals.
Kelp promotes healthier skin and coat, helps tissue repair, and may even reduce flea outbreaks. Its nutrients support metabolism, boost energy, and reduce infections. With anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties, kelp is available fresh, dried, powdered or in liquid form like the Natrakelp. - Wakame is also a type of kelp, has one of the highest nutrient-to-calorie ratios (from a vegetarian source) of anti-inflammatory Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acid (EPA). May assist with weight control due to its low calorie content and ability to stimulate fat burning. The salty taste is not just salt but a balanced, chelated combination of sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, iron and trace minerals such iodine. This trace element was found to play a role in the prevention of cancer.
Wakame also supports heart health, hormone balance, strengthens bones and boosts energy. Feed fresh or as a powdered supplement such as the Augustine’s Approved Wakame Powder for pets. - Ascophyllum Nodosum also known as Norwegian Kelp, is a brown seaweed that offers many benefits for pets. It’s rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a great supplement for overall health. The active ingredient “fucoidan” helps reduce plaque and tartar build-up in dogs and cats, promoting better oral hygiene and fresher breath. Ascophyllum Nodosum is often available in powdered form and can be easily added to your pet’s food for a nutritional boost.
- Spirulina a nutrient-dense sea vegetable, is 60% protein and rich in gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. It helps with skin issues like dermatitis and eczema, as well as conditions like arthritis, colitis, and even cancer.
Packed with vitamins C, E, B complex, carotenoids, chlorophyll, and phycocyanin, spirulina supports immune health and is highly digestible. Its antioxidants make it especially helpful for older dogs, slowing aging and preventing cancer.
Spirulina promotes healthy skin and coat and provides easily absorbed protein, making it ideal for sick or picky dogs. It also supports eye health and may help stop grass-eating by providing essential nutrients.
Spirulina is also great for horses, especially those with lowered immunity, poor appetite, fatigue and to help balance blood sugar.
To incorporate sea vegetables into your pet’s diet, sprinkle powdered forms to meals or choose natural pet foods that already include these ingredients. Introduce gradually and in small amounts to avoid any adverse effects, such as iodine overdose. If your pet has thyroid issues, ask your vet for advice before adding seaweed to the diet.
