Although you might not be well-acquainted with sea cucumbers, they are regarded as a gourmet delicacy in numerous Asian cultures. Unlike vegetables, sea cucumbers are actually marine animals that inhabit the ocean floors globally, with the largest populations residing in the Pacific Ocean. Most sea cucumbers bear a striking resemblance to sizable worms or caterpillars, characterized by their soft and tubular bodies. These unique creatures are harvested by divers or cultivated commercially in expansive artificial ponds. Beyond their culinary allure, sea cucumbers are also utilized in traditional folk medicine for treating various health concerns.

This article delves into the nutritional advantages of sea cucumbers and explores whether they deserve a place in your diet.

What are the Uses of Sea Cucumbers?

For centuries, sea cucumbers have served not only as a vital food source but also as a significant medicinal ingredient across various Asian and Middle Eastern cultures. These unique, slug-like creatures have been harvested from the Pacific Ocean for an impressive duration exceeding 170 years. Typically, they are utilized in either their fresh or dried forms, with the dried variant being far more prevalent in culinary applications.

The dried sea cucumber, commonly referred to as bêche-de-mer or trepang, undergoes a rehydration process before being incorporated into an array of dishes, including soups, stews, and stir-fries. Moreover, they can also be enjoyed raw, pickled, or fried, showcasing versatility in preparation methods.

Characterized by their slippery texture and relatively bland flavor, sea cucumbers often absorb the essence of accompanying ingredients, such as meats, seafood, or an array of spices. They are frequently paired with vegetables like Chinese cabbage, winter melon, and shiitake mushrooms to elevate their taste.

In traditional Chinese medicine, sea cucumber is revered for its purported healing properties, believed to aid in the treatment of various ailments, including arthritis, cancer, frequent urination, and impotence. Beyond culinary uses, creams, tinctures, oils, and cosmetic products infused with sea cucumber extract, alongside oral supplements, are widely embraced within this medicinal practice.

While certain species of sea cucumber possess bioactive compounds with potential pharmacological benefits, robust scientific evidence to substantiate these claims remains limited. Additionally, due to the escalating demand for sea cucumbers, many species are facing the threat of overfishing and potential extinction in their natural habitats. It is essential to opt for farmed sea cucumbers or those sourced from sustainable fisheries to ensure environmental preservation.

Sea Cucumbers: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Sea cucumbers are not only a unique culinary delicacy but also boast a remarkable array of nutrients.

In just 100 grams of the Alaskan yane sea cucumber, you can find:

  • Calories: 60
  • Protein: 14 grams
  • Fat: less than 1 gram
  • Vitamin A: 8% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • B2 (Riboflavin): 81% of the DV
  • B3 (Niacin): 22% of the DV
  • Calcium: 3% of the DV
  • Magnesium: 4% of the DV

With their remarkably low calorie and fat content coupled with a high protein percentage, sea cucumbers serve as an excellent option for those aiming to lose weight. This unique marine food is rich in powerful compounds, including antioxidants, which provide various health benefits.

Sea cucumbers are predominantly made up of protein, with various species containing between 41% and 63% protein. Incorporating protein-rich foods into your meals and snacks promotes a feeling of fullness by slowing the rate at which your stomach empties. This effect can lead to reduced overall food intake and more stable blood sugar levels, making sea cucumbers an advantageous choice for individuals with diabetes seeking to manage their blood sugar effectively. Moreover, a protein-rich diet is associated with improved heart health, lower blood pressure, and enhanced bone density.

Rich in Beneficial Compounds

Sea cucumbers are an incredible source of not only protein, vitamins, and minerals but also a variety of substances that may enhance overall health. These unique marine creatures contain phenolic and flavonoid antioxidants that have demonstrated a remarkable ability to alleviate inflammation throughout the body. Consuming diets abundant in these antioxidants is associated with a lowered risk of numerous chronic illnesses, including heart disease and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's. Additionally, sea cucumbers are loaded with triterpene glycosides, known for their antifungal, antitumor, and immune-boosting properties. Furthermore, these fascinating animals boast high levels of compounds structurally related to chondroitin sulfate, a vital element of human connective tissue found in cartilage and bone. Incorporating foods and supplements that include chondroitin sulfate may provide significant relief to individuals suffering from joint diseases like osteoarthritis.

Exploring the Health Benefits

Sea cucumbers are recognized for their potential to provide a variety of health advantages, making them a subject of growing interest in the field of nutrition.

Properties That Combat Cancer

These marine creatures harbor compounds that may assist in combating cancerous cells. For instance, a study conducted in a laboratory setting indicated that triterpene diglycosides sourced from Vietnamese sea cucumbers exhibited toxic effects on five distinct cancer cell lines, including those associated with breast, prostate, and skin cancers.

Additionally, research found that ds-echinoside A, another form of triterpene derived from sea cucumbers, significantly curtailed the proliferation and spread of human liver cancer cells. Although these findings are encouraging, further investigation is crucial to ascertain the effectiveness and safety of employing sea cucumbers as a potential cancer treatment.

Antimicrobial Effects

Numerous studies conducted in vitro have illustrated that extracts from black sea cucumbers can impede the proliferation of various bacteria, such as E. coli, S. aureus, and S. typhi, all of which are notorious for causing illnesses. One particular study indicated that sea cucumbers might also combat Candida albicans, a type of yeast that can lead to infections when its levels become excessive, particularly among individuals with weakened immune systems.

In a week-long study involving 17 participants residing in a home setting with oral Candida overgrowth, those who ingested a jelly infused with Japanese sea cucumber extract experienced a notable reduction in Candida levels compared to those who did not partake in the jelly. Moreover, research involving rats revealed that black sea cucumber demonstrated effectiveness in fighting sepsis, a serious condition triggered by harmful bacterial infections.

Benefits for Heart and Liver Health

Several animal-based studies have indicated that sea cucumbers may enhance cardiovascular and liver health. For example, rats suffering from hypertension that were administered white-bottomed sea cucumber extract exhibited significant drops in blood pressure in comparison to their counterparts who did not receive the extract. Another investigation involving young rats showed that a diet enriched with chocolate chip sea cucumber led to marked reductions in overall cholesterol levels, low-density lipoproteins, and triglycerides.

Furthermore, a study conducted on rats with hepatorenal disease found that a singular dose of black sea cucumber extract considerably lessened oxidative stress and liver damage while improving the functionality of both liver and kidneys. In conclusion, while sea cucumbers show promise in fighting cancer cells, inhibiting harmful bacteria, and enhancing cardiac health, additional human-focused studies are essential to draw definitive conclusions regarding their health benefits.

Potential Side Effects

Sea cucumbers, consumed globally for centuries, are generally considered safe; however, there are some important concerns to note. Firstly, certain species possess anticoagulant properties, which means they can thin the blood. Individuals who are on blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin, should avoid sea cucumbers, particularly in concentrated supplement forms, to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding.

Secondly, even though sea cucumbers are not classified as shellfish, they may still pose a risk for those with shellfish allergies due to potential cross-contamination in seafood restaurants or processing facilities. Furthermore, while some animal studies suggest potential benefits in treating conditions like cancer, heart disease, and bacterial infections, research in these areas remains scarce, indicating a need for more human studies to ascertain the safety and effectiveness of sea cucumbers.

Additionally, the growing global demand for sea cucumbers has resulted in a significant decline in their populations. These creatures play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem, particularly within ocean reefs, and have been adversely affected by unsustainable fishing practices. To ensure that sea cucumber populations thrive, it is advisable to select those that are either farmed sustainably or harvested using responsible methods. Always opt for animal species that are not classified as endangered, as this is the best practice for environmental sustainability. In summary, individuals with shellfish or seafood allergies, as well as those on blood-thinning medications, should steer clear of sea cucumbers. Prioritizing sustainably raised sea cucumbers can greatly assist in mitigating the impacts of overfishing on this vital marine species.

The Final Takeaway

Sea cucumbers, fascinating creatures from the ocean, boast a wide array of culinary and medicinal applications. These unique marine animals serve as a nutritious source of protein and can enhance a diverse range of delectable dishes. Furthermore, while there are potential health benefits associated with sea cucumbers, further investigation is necessary to draw definitive conclusions. For those with a sense of culinary adventure, consider incorporating sea cucumbers into your recipes as an alternative to more conventional seafood options.