Kelp

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Kelp refers to various flat brown seaweeds, including species of Laminaria and Macrocystis, that grow on rocks mainly in cold oceanic waters of the Northern Hemisphere. Kelps have been used as human and animal food, medicines, and fertilizers for thousands of years by coastal peoples of Greece, China, Europe, and North America. The seaweeds have been most commonly used to counter goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland, which is located on the neck) and underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). The scientific rationale for these uses began in 1812 with the discovery in kelp of iodine, a mineral necessary for the body to produce thyroid hormones

On This Page
Benefits and Uses
Recent Findings
Do Scientists Know How it Works?
Types of Products
Safety

Benefits and Uses

A number of countries since the 1920s have added iodine to salt. This can effectively reduce goiter and other diseases associated with iodine deficiencies, but in some parts of the world these conditions remain serious public health problems that could be alleviated by consumption of kelp and other seaweeds. Because an underactive thyroid can lead to lethargy and weight gain, some people take kelp to boost energy and promote weight loss. Japanese scientists have shown that kelp may inhibit the development of breast cancer. Kelp may help remove heavy metals, radioactive particles, and other potentially toxic substances from the body. Kelp has also been used topically as a folk remedy for minor burns, by moistening the strips in cool water and applying them to the skin. Kelp may also help to prevent or treat:

digestive disorders

bronchial congestion

Recent Findings

Researchers in Hong Kong demonstrated in an animal study that kelp, along with green beans and common rue, contains substances that have a direct effect on the cardiovascular system and may be helpful in lowering blood pressure. Kelps and other seaweeds rich in iodine and other nutrients were shown in an animal experiment to suppress the thyroid's ability to absorb radioactive iodine, thus potentially preventing the organ from being injured by the harmful effects of radiation. Scientists in Hong Kong determined that, contrary to the common assumption that iodine deficiencies are rare in coastal cities, approximately 50 percent of both children and adults in Hong Kong had insufficient iodine levels. A dietary survey showed that seafoods and kelp were not commonly consumed.

Do Scientists Know How it Works?

Kelp is rich in not only iodine but various other nutrients, including enzymes, fiber, amino acids, vitamins including niacin and B12, and the minerals potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Kelp is also a source of mucilage, which can have a soothing effect on mucous membranes. Polysaccharides known as alginates found in kelp and other brown seaweeds have been widely used by the cosmetic and food industries for decades as emulsifiers, suspending agents, and stabilizers. Alginates are also being investigated for their medicinal effects and may help to prevent cancer, relieve heartburn, and promote the healing of burns and wounds. It is the alginates that help to eliminate toxins in the body by binding with heavy metals, for example. Alginate fibers in surgical gauze and bandages can help stop bleeding.

Food Sources

Kelp can be eaten fresh or dried. Some people consume it as a side dish while it can also be used to flavor soups, stews, and salads.

Product Recommendations

	Lecithin, Kelp, Apple Cider Vinegar, B-6 provides nutrients to help the liver metabolize fats and lipids. 3 tablets of Super Leci-Thins contains: Lecithin 1300 mg, Apple Cider Vinegar 255 mg, Kelp 150 mg, B-6 50 mg, Calcium 360 mg, Iodine 225 mcg. On Sale Now
On Sale Now	Kelp has a long history of use as a food and as a source of assimilable iodine. It contains many nutrients absorbed from the sea. 1 capsule provides: 330 mcg Iodine, 390 mcg Iron, gluconate, 660 mg Kelp (whole thallus),

Types of Products

Kelp is available in tablets, capsules, and liquids. It is a common ingredient in formulas for:

thyroid

diet and weight loss

circulation

hair, skin, and nails

brain and memory

Safety

Long-term consumption of large doses of kelp may deliver excess levels of iodine to the thyroid, resulting in hyperthyroidism (over-active thyroid). Check labels of kelp supplements for iodine content-it can vary considerably depending upon species, growing conditions, and other factors. Kelp can also be high in sodium and may need to be taken with caution by anyone following a salt-restricted diet.

References

Chiu, K.W., and A.Y. Fung, "The cardiovascular effects of green beans (Phaseolus aureus), common rue (Ruta graveolens), and kelp (Laminaria japonica) in rats," Gen Pharmacol (1997), 29(5):859-62
Kung, A.W., et al., "Existence of iodine deficiency in Hong Kong-a coastal city in southern China," Eur J Clin Nutr (1996), 50(8):569-72
Maruyama, H., and I. Yamamoto, "Suppression of 125I-uptake in mouse thyroid by seaweed feeding: possible preventative effect of dietary seaweed on internal radiation injury of the thyroid by radioactive iodine," Kitasato Arch Exp Med (1992), 65(4):209-16

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This web site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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