Amal Clooney Shares Korean Seaweed Soup as Her Breakfast Staple: What to Know
- Korean seaweed soup, or miyeokguk, provides calcium, magnesium, and iron, supporting bone health, muscle function, nerve signaling, and oxygen transport.
- Adding beef, tofu, or fish boosts miyeokguk’s protein content, while choosing lower-sodium broth helps limit salt intake when preparing it at home.
- Seaweed’s high iodine content may affect thyroid function, so people with thyroid conditions should consult their doctor about appropriate intake; seaweed may also contain heavy metals depending on its source.
Amal Clooney shared her breakfast routine, sparking interest in a food that many Asian families have long valued in their traditions: seaweed. As a mother of two and a busy philanthropist and lawyer, Clooney has mentioned enjoying seaweed soup. This soup is known as miyeokguk. It’s enjoyed as part of many meals and often served on birthdays. It’s also a nice choice for something warm, light, and comforting to start the day.
Benefits of Miyeokguk
Seaweed contains minerals such as calcium, which supports bone health; magnesium, which helps with nerve signaling and muscle contraction; and iron, which helps the body produce hemoglobin and transport oxygen.
The soup isn’t necessarily a significant source of protein, so beef, tofu, or fish is often added to make it a more balanced meal.
Considerations for Thyroid Health
Despite its nutritional benefits, miyeokguk may not be suitable for everyone in large amounts. Seaweed can contain high levels of iodine, which can affect thyroid function. People with thyroid conditions, like hyperthyroidism, should consult their doctor about how much seaweed is appropriate for them. Seaweed can also collect heavy metals, including cadmium, lead, and mercury, depending on its source. The nutritional content of miyeokguk varies depending on the seaweed, broth, and other ingredients used.
How to Enjoy Miyeokguk at Home
If you’re curious about bringing this traditional flavor into your diet, you can prepare miyeokguk by simmering dried brown seaweed in broth with garlic and a little sesame oil. Monitor the sodium content, since many broths can be high in salt content, and add a protein of your choice for a more balanced meal.
.jpg){kind=link}