Salmon Sushi with Asparagus and Nori Seaweed

Seaweed has been consumed by people for thousands of years. It is a staple in many Asian cultures and enjoyed by the people around the world from Ireland to Malaysia. The United States has been slower to adopt the sea vegetable as part of their diets, but it has slowly been gaining popularity as an accompaniment to sushi and as crispy snacks found in natural foods stores. The popularity of seaweed is due in part to the fact that it is so nutritious, providing many vitamins and minerals. But what exactly are these health benefits and how do you add seaweed to your diet? Eat Smarter explores the increasing popularity of these sea vegetables that are showing up on menus and plates across the country.

You can find sushi at that little inexpensive restaurant down the street as well as that elegant 5 star Japanese restaurant. Sushi has become extremely popular and most people are familiar with it. However, few people actually know anything about sushi traditions, how many calories it has and how healthy it is. EAT SMARTER gives you Sushi 101.