Sea kale: benefits and harm to the body

The world's oceans offer humans many healthy delicacies, including seaweed.
On the store shelf, this seaweed looks like a salad of dried or fresh brownish-green ribbons. What is it like in its natural habitat? Let's look at how sea kale grows and where it is obtained. Seafood you prefer to eat

• I can eat all day 65%, 585 votes
  585 votes 65%

  585 votes - 65% of all votes

• For dinner 23%, 209 votes

  209 votes 23%

  209 votes - 23% of all votes

• For lunch 10%, 93 votes

  93 votes 10%

  Read also:  The role of strawberries in human life and its benefits for the body

  93 votes - 10% of all votes

• For breakfast 2%, 19 votes

  19 votes 2%

  19 votes - 2% of all votes

Total votes: 906

18.04.2020

×

You or from your IP have already voted.

general information

Laminaria is a member of the brown algae family. It grows in the northern seas and is also cultivated in Japan and Russia in the Far East.

Photo – Laminaria close-up

The algae looks like long (3-15 m) ribbons of dark green or brown color. In nature, there are more than 30 varieties of this plant. Japanese kelp, which has a rich chemical composition, is especially valued. Sugary and finger-cut cabbage is used in the food industry.

Composition of kelp

The chemical composition of brown algae is rich and unique; the plant contains large quantities of such substances:

• iodine;
• amino acids;
• protein compounds;
• alginic acid;
• potassium, magnesium, bromine, sodium, iron, manganese and other trace elements;
• fatty acid;
• B vitamins;
• ascorbic acid;
• cellulose;
• vitamins E, D, A.

The combination of these substances makes kelp one of the most useful foods for humans.

Chemical composition

Algae contains fiber, proteins, essential amino acids, high-molecular polysaccharides, enterosorbents, as well as all water- and fat-soluble vitamins and microelements important for the body.

Attention! Sea kale is a dietary product, since 100 g of seaweed contains only 43 kcal.

Table - Content of micro- and macroelements in kelp

Application and beneficial properties of kelp

Used in the treatment of atherosclerosis and endemic goiter. It is also a mild laxative for chronic constipation. It is used for diseases of the upper respiratory tract associated with human work with radionuclides. Treatment is carried out using inhalation, a decoction for which is made from 1 teaspoon of raw materials and 200 ml. water. Not recommended for urticaria, diathesis, pregnancy and other diseases where drugs containing iodine are contraindicated.

SUGAR LAMINARIA (SEA CABBAGE) – Laminaria saccharina L.

Laminaria saccharide is a brown algae and is a perennial plant with a ribbon-shaped lamellar thallus from 1 to 12 m long. It lives in the Black and North Seas.

This plant contains iodine (2.7-3%), laminarin (21%), mannitol (21%), alginic acid, fructose, vitamins B, B1, B12, B2, D, C, as well as many minerals such as sodium, potassium, phosphorus, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc, bromine.

It should be noted that a wide variety of dishes can be prepared from dried and frozen seaweed, subjected to processing: poured with cold water for 10-12 hours, then washed, filled with water again and boiled for 20 minutes, the boiling procedure is repeated 3 times.

Sea kale is used in the treatment of atherosclerosis, endemic goiter, inflammation of the appendages and ovaries in women, reduces the amount of cholesterol, and in folk medicine is used to treat anemia. Also, kelp is not only a medicinal product, but also a dietary food, from which various dishes and even sweets are made.

Contraindications for seaweed

Contraindicated for kidney disease, acute forms of diseases of the digestive system, iodine intolerance, as well as for diseases for which drugs and products containing iodine are contraindicated. If you have serious illnesses, you should consult your doctor before consuming seaweed.

Benefit

Laminaria has a number of useful properties:

• produces a powerful antioxidant effect;
• increases the regenerative capabilities of cells;
• protects the genetic apparatus from mutations;
• normalizes carbohydrate and lipid metabolism;
• strengthens the vascular wall, increases the contractile function of the heart;
• removes toxins and heavy metal salts from the body;
• stimulates intestinal motility;
• improves psycho-emotional state.

It also produces detoxification, immunostimulating, metabolic, adaptogenic effects. Therefore, kelp is used for diseases of internal organs, endocrine disorders, and immune disorders.

For women

Women benefit from seaweed. It prevents the development of adnexitis and endometritis, as well as:

• helps in the treatment of infertility;
• restores the regularity of the menstrual cycle;
• eliminates PMS symptoms;
• stabilizes hormonal levels.

This plant increases libido in women and increases the severity of sensations during sexual intercourse.

For men

In men, seaweed increases libido, potency and normalizes testosterone production. A product based on kelp is also recommended for use during increased sports loads, heavy physical work, for the prevention of prostate adenoma and other diseases that occur after 45 years.

Interesting! Scientists at the University of California have found that regular consumption of algae increases the production of interferon by 13 times, and interleukin by 3.3 times.

For children and teenagers

Seaweed is rich in vitamins and microelements that are involved in the growth and development of the child’s body. Therefore, pediatricians often advise parents to add products based on it to the diet of a child over three years old. It is especially useful to take seaweed for children with anemia, obesity, delayed mental or physical development.

The benefits of seaweed for women

Cabbage is very useful for women, especially for those who live in the harsh conditions of modern cities. It will help you look good and withstand nervous stress. Laminaria is useful for preventing bleeding, especially with anemia.

Recommended for use in the presence of hormonal imbalances. It will be useful if you have excess weight and cellulite, as a means of improving metabolism. Cabbage improves the digestion of proteins and fiber. Prevents the development of atherosclerosis and is a means of reducing high blood pressure.

Contraindications

Despite the medicinal properties and benefits of seaweed, it can be harmful to some categories of people. The use of seaweed is prohibited under the following conditions:

• hyperfunction of the thyroid gland;
• allergies to iodine and seafood;
• furunculosis;
• exacerbation of urticaria;
• severe kidney disease;
• active tuberculosis.

Now Foods, Kelp, 150 mcg, 200 tablets

★★★★★

550 ₽

Buy at a discount

How much seaweed should you eat per day?

In order for kelp to bring benefits and not harm, when consuming seaweed, you should strictly follow the instructions of nutritionists. It is enough for an adult to eat 250 g of cabbage per week, dividing this amount into 2-3 doses. Servings of seaweed for children are smaller: about 60 g for children under seven years old, up to 100 g for schoolchildren.

Attention! Laminaria is not recommended for use during pregnancy. The algae contains a high concentration of iodine and can cause miscarriage or premature birth. And nursing women can eat it, but in small portions.

The dangers of eating too much seaweed

Seaweed contains high concentrations of iodine, silicon, and alginates, so it should not be eaten constantly, otherwise osteoporosis or furunculosis may develop. Long-term consumption of algae can also provoke poisoning. It is manifested by staining of the oral mucosa, bad breath, diarrhea, muscle weakness, and irritability.

Features of the use of kelp for various diseases

Laminaria helps sick people alleviate the symptoms of certain diseases. You just need to know how much algae you can eat so that it has a beneficial effect on the body and does not aggravate the disease.

For pancreatitis

Sea kale has a beneficial effect on the human body during pancreatitis. But in order not to harm your health, the norm of its consumption is established with a doctor. It is directly dependent on the stage of the disease and the patient’s well-being.

At the initial stage of the disease, the inclusion of kelp in the patient’s diet has a regenerating effect on cells. Digestive processes are normalized, substances enter the pancreas that prevent tissue destruction.

In case of exacerbation of the inflammatory process, you should stop using the product. If you ignore this recommendation, stimulation of the gastrointestinal tract can cause colic, diarrhea and increased gas production.

For gastritis

If you have gastritis, fresh seaweed is useful. It helps relieve pain and normalize the functioning of the digestive system. Algae are most beneficial for those with high acidity. Cabbage can only cause harm if an inflammatory process develops in the stomach or if there are existing contraindications.

For diabetes

Cabbage from the sea for people suffering from diabetes guarantees a decrease in glucose levels. Algae normalizes insulin production and stabilizes the functions of the pancreatic and thyroid glands. The seafood product is a good preventative against diabetes.

How often do you eat seaweed?

• Once a month 39%, 594 votes
  594 votes 39%

  594 votes - 39% of all votes

• Once a week 25%, 388 votes

  388 votes 25%

  388 votes - 25% of all votes

  Read also:  “Ringing” family. Why are bells interesting?
• Every day 21%, 322 votes

  322 votes 21%

  322 votes - 21% of all votes

• I don’t eat at all 15%, 227 votes

  227 votes 15%

  227 votes - 15% of all votes

Total votes: 1531

23.09.2019

×

You or from your IP have already voted.

To avoid negative effects, diabetics should include kelp in their diet after consultation with an endocrinologist. A safe dosage for health is to consume 50 grams of algae per day or 100 grams three times a week.

Application in medicine

In medicine, biologically active additives (BAS) based on algae extracts are mainly used. They have the same contraindications for use as kelp-based products.

The main forms of release of dietary supplements:

1. Tablets and capsules. Convenient to use. They are suitable for people who do not like the taste and smell of the sea plant.
2. Powder and granules. They have a characteristic smell and salty taste. They are added to salads and cold appetizers as a seasoning.
3. Liquid. It is convenient to dose and you need to drink a few drops a day, mixed with water.

The following are the main indications for the use of dietary supplements.

Life Extension, Marine Iodine, 1000 mcg, 60 Veggie Caps

★★★★★

462 ₽

Buy at a discount

For problems with the gastrointestinal tract

Laminaria has a mild laxative effect due to the presence of alginic acid. Therefore, supplements based on it are prescribed for constipation, poisoning, intestinal atony, and are also used in the complex therapy of chronic pancreatitis, gastritis, and cholecystitis. Algae promotes the transition of fluid into the intestinal lumen, as well as:

• softens feces;
• enhances peristalsis;
• improves the digestion process;
• removes toxins and waste products of pathogenic bacteria.

For tumors

A study was conducted at the University of South Carolina during which scientists found out why kelp extracts are useful and help in the treatment of oncology, as well as breast cancer. It turned out that with the daily use of algae-based dietary supplements, a number of endocrine and immunological changes occur in the body, preventing the development of tumors.

Interesting fact! Women in Japan are 4 times less likely to get breast cancer than in America and Europe. Doctors associate this fact with increased consumption of seafood, fish, and algae.

For joint diseases

Laminaria has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Therefore, supplements based on its extracts are used for osteochondrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

For hypothyroidism

Sea kale has a high concentration of iodine and can support the health of the thyroid gland and increase the production of thyroid hormones. Therefore, healing extracts from algae are actively used for hypothyroidism and endemic goiter.

For liver pathologies

Laminaria has detoxification properties, and also improves the flow of bile and prevents fatty infiltration of the liver. It also binds toxic substances in the liver parenchyma and removes them with feces. Therefore, it is useful to consume algae to prevent liver diseases.

For diabetes

Preparations with kelp extracts have a positive effect on the functioning of the pancreas, stimulate the production of insulin and promote its binding to receptors in peripheral tissues. The drugs also reduce blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes and relieve the manifestations of metabolic syndrome.

Country Life, Arctic-Kelp, 225 mcg, 300 tablets

★★★★★

734 ₽

Buy at a discount

For atherosclerosis and ischemic heart disease

Sea kale is especially useful for the body of older people, because it contains sterols and fatty acids that regulate the level of cholesterol and lipoproteins in the blood. It also reduces the amount of harmful LDL, protects vascular walls from atherosclerosis, and prevents the risk of cardiovascular crises.

For colds

Dietary supplements based on kelp are recommended to be taken to strengthen the body’s immune system and prevent seasonal colds. After all, algae contains vitamin C, as well as active organic acids.

For bronchitis

Algae-based products are used to treat bronchopulmonary diseases. The drugs alleviate the condition of obstructive bronchitis, relieve cough and shortness of breath, bind heavy metal salts, and remove them from the respiratory tract.

With a decrease in hemoglobin

Laminaria contains a large amount of iron, so dietary supplements based on it are prescribed for mild to moderate anemia. Supplements increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood, eliminate the typical symptoms of anemia - weakness, dizziness, dry skin, perversion of taste.

How is seaweed beneficial for the body?

Seaweed has a beneficial effect on overall well-being and improves immunity. It is known that kelp is useful for the functioning of the thyroid gland, blood vessels, intestines, and organs of the reproductive system.

The functioning of the thyroid gland depends on the amount of iodine. A deficiency of the element, which is contained in the required amount in kelp, leads to the development of endemic goiter, hypothyroidism, hair loss, drowsiness, weight change, and deterioration of complexion.

The algae contains sterols. Daily consumption of the product reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis. Sterols help thin the blood, which prevents blood clots.

Laminaria includes components that successfully fight radiation. They prevent the penetration of toxins and promote their rapid elimination.

Algae is recommended for consumption by people suffering from constipation. The product has special properties in its dried form. It is recommended to add it to salads. The dry product enters the intestines, swells there and is excreted. Pectins help improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

The product is recommended for patients who have undergone surgery to remove a tumor, and is recommended in the fight against cancer.

The benefits of seaweed for the body of women and men also include improving blood circulation in the blood vessels of the reproductive system.

A nursing mother needs seaweed to form a strong skeleton of the fetus, develop the nervous system, and strengthen the optic nerves. Women may experience problems with bowel function (constipation), increased blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Laminaria will help cope with these problems. Although, on the question of whether algae is harmful during breastfeeding, there is no consensus.

The beneficial properties of seaweed are preserved regardless of processing. Dried kelp loses water, but the vitamins remain in it. The storage temperature should not be lower than -18 C. The same applies to frozen products.

Dry seaweed

strengthens the body's protective functions, cleanses blood vessels, improves blood clotting, normalizes metabolism, accelerates the process of cell regeneration, and participates in the process of water-salt metabolism.

Frozen kelp is beneficial

if the product storage rules have been followed. In addition to useful substances, pickled meat may contain preservatives, salts, and harmful components.

Fresh

The highest concentration of nutrients is in the fresh product. This is exactly the kind of seaweed that nutritionists recommend eating for everyone without exception. To preserve all vitamins and minerals, it is better to eat it in salads and prepare first courses from it.

Sea kale can be included in children's menus from 2 or 3 years of age. The raw product is poorly digested by the intestinal microflora of children under this age. There are no further special restrictions.

Dried

This product also contains almost all the vitamins, minerals and substances that fresh seaweed is rich in. It is convenient to use for medicinal and prophylactic purposes. Most often, dried seaweed is used to regulate intestinal functions, remove harmful cholesterol and toxins. In pediatric dietetics - to combat anemia and obesity, and diarrhea.

Dried kelp will be an ideal choice if you want to use it in cosmetology. It will make excellent face masks and scrubs, but the main thing is not to forget about possible contraindications.

Pickled and canned

It is known that food products lose their original properties after cooking. The benefits of canned seaweed, and especially pickled one, will be much less. However, in this option, the body will receive the substances it needs, albeit not in full.

Canned cabbage can be used as a substitute for fresh cabbage if there is no other choice. Before use, it must be washed well and then boiled. Pickled seaweed can be considered as a dish that enhances the taste of other dishes, a multivitamin.

The use of kelp in cosmetology

Algae has a beneficial effect on the skin and hair. It is added to various creams, masks, scrubs and is often used in cosmetic procedures.

Scrubs and masks for skin beauty

Masks and scrubs with kelp deeply nourish, moisturize the dermis, increase its elasticity, and have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. Products containing seaweed prevent the appearance of wrinkles, sagging skin on the thighs, abdomen, buttocks, and give it elasticity.

Watch the video with a recipe for a face mask based on kelp:

Laminaria face mask. SUPER EFFECT!

For hair beauty

Algae increases microcirculation of the scalp and enhances the trophism of hair follicles. But these are not all the beneficial properties of seaweed. For example, masks containing the extract of this plant accelerate hair growth, nourish it along its entire length, moisturize the scalp and fight split ends.

Possible harm of seaweed to the human body

Although seaweed is considered a very healthy food, it may come with some potential dangers if consumed in excess. Here's how seaweed is harmful to the human body:

Excessive iodine intake

Seaweed can contain very high and potentially dangerous amounts of iodine. Interestingly, the Japanese's high iodine intake is considered one of the reasons why they are among the healthiest people in the world.

However, the average daily iodine intake in Japan is estimated at 1000-3000 mcg (667-2000% of the RDI). This poses a risk for those who consume seaweed every day, since 1,100 mcg of iodine is the tolerable upper limit for adults (7, 9).

Fortunately, in Asian cultures, seaweed is commonly eaten with foods that may interfere with the absorption of iodine by the thyroid gland. These products are called goitrogens and are found in broccoli, cabbage, and bok choy (9).

Additionally, it is important to note that seaweed is water-soluble, which means cooking and processing can affect its iodine content. For example, when kelp is boiled for 15 minutes, it can lose up to 90% of its iodine content (9).

While several case reports have linked kelp consumption to thyroid dysfunction, thyroid function returned to normal after cessation of consumption of this seafood (54, 55).

However, large amounts of algae can affect thyroid function, and the symptoms of too much iodine often overlap with those of iodine deficiency (7).

If you think you are consuming too much iodine and are experiencing symptoms such as a sore throat or weight fluctuations, reduce your intake of iodine-rich foods and talk to your doctor.

Excessive intake of heavy metals

Seaweeds can absorb and store minerals in concentrated quantities (9). This poses a health risk as seaweed may also contain high levels of toxic heavy metals such as cadmium, mercury and lead.

However, heavy metal contents in seaweeds are generally below concentration limits in most countries (56).

A recent study analyzed the concentrations of 20 metals in 8 different seaweeds from Asia and Europe. The levels of cadmium, aluminum, and lead in 4 grams of each seaweed were found to not pose a serious health risk (57).

However, if you regularly consume seaweed, there is a possibility that heavy metals will accumulate in your body over time. If possible, buy organic seaweed, as it is less likely to contain significant amounts of heavy metals (57).

Summary:

Seaweed may contain a lot of iodine, which can affect thyroid function. Seaweed can also accumulate heavy metals, but this is not considered a health risk.

Recipes with seaweed

The use of seafood, including seaweed, is popular in cooking. Dried, raw, and canned crispy seaweed are placed in dishes. But before using or eating, the plant must be properly prepared. The dry additive is soaked for 10-12 hours, then boiled 3 times for 15 minutes, changing the water after each stage.

Vegetable salad with kelp

For the recipe you will need:

• kelp and Chinese cabbage – 200 g each;
• cucumbers – 2 pcs.;
• cherry tomatoes – 5-6 pcs.;
• vegetable oil, salt.

Cooking principle:

Peking cabbage must be finely chopped, add kelp cut into strips 3-4 cm long. Divide the cherry into 4 parts, chop the cucumbers into thin strips. Mix all products, season with olive or sunflower oil, add salt to taste.

Nature's Way, Kelp, 600 mg, 180 Vegetarian Capsules

★★★★★

694 ₽

Buy at a discount

Salad of seaweed and chicken hearts

Ingredients:

• chicken hearts – 200 g;
• seaweed – 150 g;
• chicken eggs and carrots - 2 pcs.;
• green onion feathers - 5-6 pcs.

Cooking method:

Boil eggs, carrots and chicken hearts until tender, cool. Cut carrots into strips, eggs into small cubes, hearts into circles. Chop the canned seaweed and green onions. Mix everything. You can use sour cream or homemade mayonnaise as a dressing.

Sea kale salad with salmon

For the recipe you will need:

• lightly salted salmon and kelp – 250 g each;
• chicken eggs – 4 pcs.;
• fresh cucumbers – 2 pcs.;
• homemade mayonnaise – 2-3 tbsp. l.;
• salt pepper.

Cooking principle:

Hard boil the eggs and cut into small cubes. Grate the cucumbers on a coarse grater. Cut the salmon into small pieces, chop the seaweed. Mix all ingredients, add mayonnaise, salt and pepper to taste.

Watch the video recipe for Korean salad with kelp seaweed:

Sea kale RECIPE / Korean salad / Benefits of Laminaria

Sea kale composition and calorie content

Sea kale is famous for its high iodine content. Only 30 g of the product contains the daily dose required by the human body. The calorie content of the product is very low - only 5.4 units.

It contains vitamin B1, B12 and B11, and vitamin A, D, PP, B9, E and B5. In addition to iodine, phosphorus, iron, mineral salts, mannitol, alginates and protein compounds are present.

If we compare the amount of magnesium in seaweed with vegetables that grow in the ground, there is 80 times more magnesium in kelp, and 150 times more iodine.

Laminaria for weight loss

Algae has minimal calorie content, but contains all the vitamins, nutrients, etc. that the body needs. It speeds up metabolic processes, cleanses the intestines of toxins, and therefore is actively used for weight loss.

How to lose weight quickly

If you follow a diet, you should consume 250 g of seaweed (kelp) and 200-300 g of seafood. Drinks you can drink are green tea and water with lemon juice.

Thanks to this method, you can lose up to 5-6 kg in a week. But the diet has side effects: intestinal upset, loss of strength.

Gentle method

If you want to gradually lose weight without harm to your health, then you can use a gentle diet option. The diet consists of 200 g of kelp, 120 g of boiled poultry or rabbit meat, vegetables - carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, fruits (no more than 2 pieces per day). The diet helps you get rid of 3-4 extra pounds per week.

The benefits of seaweed for men

Laminaria must be present in the diet of men who play sports or are engaged in heavy physical labor. It helps to cope with emotional stress, of which there are so many in our lives.

Cabbage reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and allows you to quickly compensate for the deficiency of useful elements and vitamins.

Laminaria helps to cope with erectile dysfunction and problems with the genitourinary system, especially if they arise against the background of infectious diseases. It allows you to increase the number and activity of sperm. Cabbage stimulates testosterone production and is a natural aphrodisiac. To achieve maximum effect, it is recommended to consume a small handful of dried seaweed daily.

Reviews

You can share your impressions about the use of seaweed in this form:

Send your review

Sea kale

Average rating: Number of reviews: 0

Buyers are more likely to write positive reviews about algae. Its main advantages are considered:

• the ability to use various types of seaweed supplements in a regular diet;
• increasing iodine reserves in the body, a substance that controls the functioning of the thyroid gland;
• improving intestinal function, eliminating constipation;
• positive effect on the sexual sphere;
• strengthening the immune system;
• regulation of blood lipid and sugar levels;
• Availability of cosmetics containing algae on sale - creams, treasures, masks.

The main disadvantage of kelp is its sharp salty taste and specific smell, which not all customers like. Sometimes supplements also cause side effects: nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, allergic reactions.

Dried kelp: instructions for use

The dried product is an indispensable part of the diet of people who care about their health. Why is dried kelp so popular? The beneficial properties of the ingredient are that it normalizes the metabolic process and strengthens the immune system. With the help of cabbage, you can cope with heart disease, normalize the functioning of the nervous system, and strengthen bones and teeth. Also, the benefit of kelp for the body is that it improves the functioning of the digestive organs.

There are several varieties of dried product. In each specific case, the rules for its use differ. So, let’s take a closer look at the instructions for using different types of dried kelp.

Laminaria powder for oral administration

This product does not have a distinct smell or taste. Thanks to this, it can be added to the diet of a person who cannot tolerate the taste of fresh seaweed. But what is the correct way to take dried kelp in powder form?

You can sprinkle this ingredient on various dishes: salads, side dishes, fish, meat. It often becomes an alternative to salt. To cope with the feeling of hunger, you need to eat two teaspoons of powder between meals, washing them down with plenty of liquid.

Thallus dry product

This is a food product made from kelp, which is dried whole leaves. It is an integral part of the diet of people who want to cope with extra pounds and improve their body health. But how to prepare kelp thallus for food in order to obtain a healthy product?

It is necessary to fill them with cold water and leave for 4 hours. After this, the algae must be washed thoroughly. Now you can cook all kinds of dishes from them. To make the leaves soft, it is worth applying double heat treatment. Thanks to this, the product will be as similar as possible to its fresh counterpart.

Product in tablet form

The method of using this drug differs from other options. A dietary supplement can compensate for the lack of iodine in the body. It is necessary to take two tablets per day to speed up the metabolic process and activate physical activity. Taking kelp orally at night makes it possible to start the metabolic process, so you will not have problems with the functioning of the digestive organs.

How to brew kelp?

Making the product is much easier than you think. It is enough to purchase the product at the pharmacy in any form. After this, take 3-4 tablespoons of cabbage and pour a liter of boiling water over them. Close the lid of the container tightly and leave the liquid to infuse for 12 hours. It is best to brew the ingredient in a thermos, as it will keep the mixture at the optimal temperature for a long time.