Trader Joe’s roasted seaweed.

I admit it, I’m becoming a little obsessed about seaweed. I bought several different kinds and I keep trying to find more information about how to use it to effectively to reduce fat absorption.

Last night, it finally dawned on me how obsessed I had become. While out I spent a lot of time talking about it to our friends who came out simply to enjoy an adult beverage. (I’m pretty sure they did not want to hear about seaweed.)

Despite this obsession, I still could not find out how much seaweed it is necessary to consume to make a difference. Though the package of roasted nori I found said a serving is half a package — about 5 grams — I wasn’t sure what that meant for fat absorption or even when to eat the seaweed for the best results. Even then, how would I know for sure it was even working?

So today, after reading the exact same information from Newcastle University on several different websites, I was frustrated. I know the seaweed will absorb up to 75% of the fat consumed and has been determined to be as effective as the drug Alli — but how much to eat and when? (You all know that I would never take a weight loss drug like Alli — for so many reasons, but the final is the horrible side effects.)

Finally, I found something close to what I was looking for — according to an Active.com article, eating only 1.5 grams will make an impact. Still, I’m not sure how much of an impact. How much fat will it absorb? And better yet, how will I know if it is working?

Because Trader Joe’s roasted nori sheets are so light, 5 grams is a lot of seaweed! I’m not confident I can eat that much at a time. In fact, because I’m not really fond of the fish flavor (though I am getting a little used to it), I found if I stuff several pieces in my mouth at one time, it’s a lot less difficult than eating several individual sheets.

So, though I don’t have definite answers to all of my questions yet, I think I will continue eating a little nori before some of my bigger meals. From everything I’ve read, it won’t hurt me, and if the professed benefits are true, then all the better!
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BTW: I am working hard to eat healthier. I’ve been increasing the number of fruits and vegetables I eat and reducing the amount of red meat and unhealthy fats. I’m hoping adding a little seaweed will help me achieve my health and fitness (and weight loss) goals just a little bit quicker.

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