Kelp is a type of extremely fast-growing seaweed called leafy algae that prefers the hard packed ocean floor surface. Giant kelp can shoot up about 300 feet per year.[1, 2] It is a dietary staple in Japan, Iceland, Hawaii, and Alaska.[2, 3] Kelp farming helps maintain the nutritive balance of the plant.[3]
Uses
The Chinese have used kelp and other seaweed for medicinal purposes since about 3000 B.C., while the Greeks have used it for cattle feed dating back to the first century B.C. In Japan, it was used for kidney, bladder, and prostate problems, as well as health issues associated with the genital tract. And the Europeans used it as fertilizer.[3]
Kelp is often a component of vitamin and mineral supplements. It contains B vitamins, including folic acid (B-9), plus vitamins C, E, D, and K. It's also nutrient-rich, containing protein, carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids. And, it's loaded with the minerals calcium, iron, sodium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and iodine.[2, 3]
Kelp is used to produce alginates, which add to the smoothness of ice cream, toothpaste, and cosmetics.
Many naturopaths recommend kelp for a number of health issues, including: [3]
- Thyroid disorder
- Constipation
- High blood pressure
- Colitis
- Eczema
- Obesity
- Poor digestion
- Nervous disorders
- Colds
Forms
Kelp is available as a powder, tincture, tablet, and capsule. As for a dosage, none is set. It's best not to overdo kelp usage, however, as it is high in iodine, which may lead to thyroid problems. The recommended dose of iodine is 150mcg daily from age four and up.[1, 2, 3]
Does kelp work
The iodine in kelp is not recommended for thyroid conditions. If your iodine levels are low kelp may be therapeutic, but deficiency of this trace mineral is not common. And taking too much could actually create thyroid problems.[2]
There also isn't enough evidence that kelp:[1, 2]
- Cuts breast cancer risk
- Helps prevent infections such as flu and HIV viruses
- Improves sensory receptors
- Makes nails and blood vessels healthy
- Lowers blood pressure
- Supports healthy digestion
- Relieves constipation
- Diminishes the chances of hair loss
- Facilitates weight loss
Medication interactions
Do not take kelp within a month before scheduled X-rays involving contrast media and do not consume kelp until well after the exam, giving the contrast time to be flushed out of your body.[1] Also, avoid taking kelp with thyroid medication.[3]
Safety Concerns and Side Effects
- Consuming too much kelp can contribute to overactive or underactive thyroid.[1]
- Do not take kelp with medication for irregular heartbeat.[1]
- Do not take excessive amounts of kelp unless prescribed by your doctor.[2]
- Large amounts of kelp may cause acne.[2]
- Kelp supplements may contain unsafe amounts of arsenic.[2]
- If you high blood pressure, consult your physician before consuming kelp.[3]
Resources
Kelp News on PricePlow
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Oct 08, 2020 Blog Post
Kaged Muscle Multivitamin: A Whole Food Vitamin and Mineral Blend
The second product to join Kaged Muscle Naturals is a comprehensive multivitamin called Kaged Muscle Multivitamin, which is derived from whole-foods! -
Sep 24, 2020 Blog Post
Revive MD Daily Greens: A Nutrient Powerhouse
Revive MD Daily Greens has been around for years, but it's time for an upgrade! It's now a powered-based product with more nutrients in every serving! -
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SteelFit’s Steel Slim: A Fat Burner Geared Towards Females
SteelFit expands their fat burner line with Steel SLIM, a weight loss pill formulated for females. Just like any other SteelFit product, it's loaded! -
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Darkside Supps is a hot new brand going after aggressive but PROFESSIONAL supplements, and the Ultra Stim Fat Burner is a phenomenal way to start! -
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SteelFit Steel Multi-V: The Dieter’s Multivitamin Drink
SteelFit Steel Multi-V is a multivitamin multimineral powder drink mix that brings HUGE doses of diet-supporting nutrients. Fight insulin resistance! -
Apr 05, 2019 Product News
Country Life Norwegian Kelp was created.
Category: Kelp -
Apr 03, 2019 Product News
NOW Kelp Caps was created.
Category: Kelp -
Jan 29, 2019 YouTube Video
SteelFit's Shredded Steel Fat Burner Ingredients (Iodine Rant Inside!) -
Jan 16, 2019 Blog Post
SteelFit Shredded Steel: The Intense Fat Burner That Wires You IN
The SteelFit Shredded Steel Fat Burner is a unique weight loss supplement that includes iodine from kelp, Alluvia Purple Tea, but also 10mg yohimbine! -
Apr 10, 2018 Blog Post
RedCon1 GI Juice: Digestive Enzymes Go Reds Over Greens
RedCon1 GI Juice has more of a "reds" blend than "greens", but it's really the digestive enzymes that make this daily fruit supplement so interesting!
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