Sea cucumbers have been known for a long time in Chinese medicine. Thanks to the high protein content, the benefits of sea cucumbers are known to be numerous for health. These marine animals are believed to be able to maintain heart and liver health, and reduce the risk of cancer.
Sea cucumbers or sea cucumbers are a type of marine animal that does not have a backbone and has a long body size. These animals are generally found on the seabed and are most abundant in the Asia Pacific region.
In Asian and Middle Eastern countries, sea cucumbers have been used as food ingredients, both in fresh and dried form. In Chinese medicine, sea cucumbers are used to treat fatigue, impotence, constipation, and joint pain.
Nutrient Content of Sea Cucumber
The benefits of sea cucumbers certainly cannot be separated from the nutritional content contained in them. In 100 grams of sea cucumber, there are 60 calories and various other nutrients, including:
- Protein
- Fat
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- Vitamin B3 (niacin)
- Calcium
- Magnesium
In addition, sea cucumbers are also known to have anticoagulant, antitumor, antifungal, and antioxidant properties.
Benefits of Sea Cucumbers for Body Health
Not just a myth, the benefits of sea cucumbers for health are unquestionable and have been proven by several studies. Well, here are some of the benefits of sea cucumbers:
1. Overcoming arthritis disease
The most talked about benefits of sea cucumbers are overcoming arthritis or arthritis. This is thanks to the presence of anti-inflammatory compounds that can treat several inflammatory disorders, from mild allergies to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
In addition, sea cucumbers are also rich in chondroitin sulfate, which is a substance found in human cartilage and is usually used to treat arthritis, such as osteoarthritis.
2. Lowering blood cholesterol levels
Research shows that high levels of protein in sea cucumbers are thought to reduce triglycerides and LDL or bad cholesterol levels in the blood. This of course can reduce the risk of atherosclerosis which is a common cause of coronary heart disease.
3. Maintain healthy heart and blood vessels
Thanks to its high protein content and low fat content, sea cucumbers are beneficial for maintaining heart health. The anti-inflammatory compounds in sea cucumbers are also able to reduce the risk of heart disease and maintain healthy blood vessels.
In addition, research shows that sea cucumbers have anticoagulant compounds. These compounds play a role in preventing blood clots which are one of the causes of heart attacks. Sea cucumbers are also known to lower blood pressure.
4. Inhibit the growth of cancer cells
Sea cucumbers contain triterpenoids which are known to inhibit the growth of cancer cells, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and skin cancer.
In addition, sea cucumbers also contain cerebrosides which can protect the intestines from inflammation and tumors. However, the benefits of this one sea cucumber still require further research to determine its effectiveness.
5. Accelerate wound healing
Sea cucumbers contain glycosaminoglycogan sulfate which is known to accelerate wound healing, both wounds on the skin surface and damage in the body. Apart from being in the form of tablets, lotions containing sea cucumbers can also form new skin tissue damaged by wounds.
6. Maintain healthy liver function
Research shows that sea cucumbers can reduce the risk of liver damage and diabetes. Sea cucumbers can also prevent liver cancer and improve kidney function.
In addition, the benefits of sea cucumbers are also known to boost the immune system, overcome frequent urination, and prevent signs of premature aging. However, the various benefits of sea cucumbers for the health of the body still require further research to ensure their effectiveness.
You should also avoid sea cucumbers if you are taking blood-thinning medications or are allergic to shellfish and seafood. Pregnant and lactating women are also not advised to consume sea cucumbers.
The Right Way to Process Sea Cucumbers
You can buy sea cucumbers fresh from the fish market or in over-the-counter dried form. However, if you decide to buy dried sea cucumbers, choose a trusted store to ensure their safety and freshness.
Here are some ways to cultivate sea cucumbers that you can do:
- Before processing, soak the sea cucumbers in water for 2 days and change the water once a day.
- After soaking, boil the sea cucumbers for 30 minutes.
- Next, clean the sea cucumber by removing the internal organs of the sea cucumber until it is completely clean.
After these steps are done, you can process the sea cucumbers into various types of delicious dishes, such as stir-fried sea cucumbers, sweet and sour sea cucumbers, or sea cucumber porridge.
If you consume sea cucumbers in supplement form, be sure to choose products that have been registered with BPOM so that their safety is guaranteed.
Although the benefits of sea cucumbers are so many for health, you are encouraged to remain careful when consuming them. If you experience complaints, such as nausea, vomiting, itching, or even shortness of breath after consuming sea cucumbers, consult a doctor to get the right treatment.