Sea Lettuce

Ulva lactuca, or sea lettuce, is a vibrant green macroalgae found in coastal regions worldwide. It supports marine ecosystems by providing habitat and food for various marine organisms. Ulva lactuca also helps maintain water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and pollutants. Nutritionally, it is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, offering health benefits such as antioxidant properties and potential anti-inflammatory effects. Its fiber content promotes gut health and may reduce the risk of gastrointestinal disorders. Additionally, certain compounds in Ulva lactuca have been linked to cardiovascular benefits. Notably, an edible algal extract of Ulva lactuca showed promising results in a clinical trial for its potential impact on depression and anhedonia in healthy volunteers. Sea lettuce encompasses ecological significance and nutritional value, making it a noteworthy component of marine environments and human health.


References:

Allaert, François-André, et al. "A randomized controlled double-blind clinical trial comparing versus placebo the effect of an edible algal extract (Ulva Lactuca) on the component of depression in healthy volunteers with anhedonia." BMC Psychiatry, vol. 18, no. 1, 2018, p. 215. doi:10.1186/s12888-018-1784-x.