The thyroid is a gland in your throat responsible for making the hormone that regulates metabolism. Hypothyroidism is an underactive or sluggish thyroid which can make you feel fatigued, gain weight and cause depression, memory loss and insomnia. Kelp, or seaweed, is one of the most effective natural supplements for hypothyroidism because of it's high iodine and nutrient content.
Check with your physician before using kelp to treat any medical condition.
Iodine
Kelp is one of the oldest treatments for hypothyroidism, used before it was understood how important iodine is in the synthesis of thyroid hormone. Adding iodine alone can often relieve the symptoms of a sluggish or under-active thyroid. Kelp, a brown seaweed, is the most concentrated natural source of iodine. It is important to monitor iodine levels when consuming kelp, because too much iodine can make your thyroid over-active, leading to hyperthyroidism.
Weight Loss
The thyroid produces the hormone that controls metabolism; weight gain is often a side effect of hypothyroidism. Kelp aids in weight loss not only by regulating the thyroid, but because it contains algin, a fiber that adds bulk in your colon and keeps your digestive system running smoothly.
High Mineral Content
Kelp contains more than 60 minerals, vitamins and amino acids. Trace minerals such as copper, zinc, selenium, magnesium and iron are important for maintaining thyroid function and overall health. These essential elements can help regulate thyroid function and are easily absorbed by the body from kelp.
Pregnancy
Women who are iodine deficient may be more likely to miscarry. Pregnant women with thyroid problems may benefit from kelp, as it is safe to take during pregnancy when other medications may not be well tolerated. It may be safer for hypothyroid women to use kelp rather than take medication, as "pregnant women with high levels of thyroid hormone may pass on toxins to their developing fetus", reports the Journal of the American Medical Association.
References
- National Institues of Health: Effects of kelp supplementation on thyroid function in euthyroid subjects
- Low Thyroid Supplement Reviews: Kelp Benefits and Thyroid Function
- Thyroid Health: Natural treatment for hypothyroidism
- WHFoods: Kelp Nutrient Profile
- Krispin: Thyroid Disease Support Information
- Medical News: Pregnant women with high levels of thyroid hormone may pass on toxins to their developing fetus
