Kelp, also known as bladderwrack, is a type of seaweed sometimes used in the alternative treatment of hypothyroidism. Kelp itself is derived from the Baltic Sea, North Sea and the northern-most coasts of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Kelp is used as a spice in various types of Asian foods as well as an herbal treatment. Kelp is thought to help boost thyroid hormone production, therefore aiding an under-active thyroid.
Function
Kelp contains iodine, a natural salt. Iodine helps regulate thyroid hormone production when taken in moderation. In Third World countries, iodine is not a regular part of the human diet. Therefore, thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism and goiter, or an enlarged thyroid, are more common. In hypothyroidism, hormone production is disrupted, which results in metabolic changes and sometimes a goiter.
Purported Benefits
Metabolic changes in hypothyroidism often result in rapid weight gain, excessive fatigue, hair loss, cold skin and irritability. Taking iodine-rich kelp can help your thyroid produce more hormones, reversing these symptoms. Also, kelp itself is a purported antioxidant as well as an antifungal and antibacterial agent.
Indications
Kelp for thyroid health is available in its natural form and by tablet supplements or liquid mixture. When using the natural form, Medline Plus recommends that you mix 16 grams of kelp with one pint of water and take in 2 oz. doses. Liquid mixture consumption should be divided into four to eight milliliter servings. Kelp tablets can be taken three times a day. Medline Plus says adults 18 and older should not exceed 600 milligrams a day.
Potential Side Effects
Iodine is an ingredient commonly found in the American diet, as it is prevalent in table salt. A diet high in iodine combined with kelp supplements can cause adverse effects on the thyroid. In fact, according to Medline Plus, your thyroid hormone levels can actually reverse, causing hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid. On the other hand, Pub Med reports that a University of New Mexico study on kelp given to patients without thyroid problems found no significant changes in thyroid hormone production. Other potential side effects of kelp include low blood sugar, severe acne, bleeding disorders, digestive problems, and kidney or nerve toxicity.
Considerations
Although kelp has been scientifically tested, there is not enough evidence to deem kelp as an efficient thyroid cure. In fact, Medline Plus has given kelp a "C" rating, based on the lack of proof that it helps cure goiter or hypothyroidism. Users should also keep in mind that such supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, all potential side effects may not be known, and the quality of products is not guaranteed. Do not use kelp with other thyroid supplements or hormone replacements without consulting a physician.
