Sea cucumbers are a delicacy in Chinese cuisine and are highly sought after for their medicinal properties. Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, sea cucumbers have been linked to a reduction in inflammation in the body and can help reduce the risk of health problems such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease. A 3.5-ounce serving of sea cucumber contains 13 grams of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing strong muscles, hair, skin, bones and connective tissue. Sea cucumbers can be eaten raw, pickled or fried, and they have a very neutral flavor that will acquire the flavors of the other ingredients with which it is cooked.
The increase in demand for sea cucumbers has caused a contagion of poaching around the world. Hakima Zidane is the official responsible for determining a sustainable level of exploitation of sea cucumbers in Morocco. The Department of Fisheries established a sea cucumber management plan that includes a test harvest program. Research has found that ds-echinoside A, a type of triterpene derived from sea cucumbers, reduced the spread and growth of human liver cancer cells.
Another study in rats with hepatorenal disease found that a single dose of black sea cucumber extract significantly reduced oxidative stress and liver damage, in addition to improving liver and kidney function. While these results are promising, more research is needed to determine the efficacy and safety of using sea cucumber to combat cancer cells. When supplying the black market, sea cucumber fishermen often work without the right equipment, with the risk of injury or even death. To prepare frozen sea cucumber for cooking, it must be thawed in the refrigerator overnight in its original packaging. Due to the delicate texture of the sea cucumber, it should be added at the end of the recipe so that it does not fall apart during cooking. Sea cucumbers are an increasingly rare delicacy with many potential health benefits.
Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, they can help reduce inflammation in the body and provide essential proteins for building strong muscles and supporting the immune system. While more research is needed to determine their efficacy against cancer cells, consuming sea cucumbers responsibly can help ensure their sustainability for future generations.
