Kelp is a form of sea vegetable known as seaweed. Not a plant or animal, kelp is actually a form of algae. Light brown to dark green in color, kelp is most commonly sold in flake form. It is commonly consumed in Japan, Alaska and Hawaii, according to NYU's Langone Medical Center. Kelp is extremely rich in iodine. The body uses iodine to produce thyroid hormones. People who do not consume large amounts of iodized salt, seafood or seaweed can use kelp to boost their iodine levels, suggests Elson Haas' book "Staying Healthy with Nutrition." Still, there is more proof needed to support the use of kelp to improve thyroid function, according to Haas.
Benefits
Kelp may raise iodine levels in the body and prevent hypothyroidism, a condition often associated with low iodine. Though not common in the United States or other developed countries, low iodine is a problem in some parts of the world. Its is the main cause of hypothyroidism in developing countries. Side effects of the condition include fatigue, depression, muscle cramps and weight gain, according to the American Thyroid Association.
Use
Kelp powder may be sprinkled on food as a salt substitute. Enjoy kelp soaked in a bowl of hot miso soup. Create a seaweed salad or add kelp into a vegetable stir fry mix. NYU's Langone Medical Center states that kelp may often be purchased in Asian markets.
Safety
There are a great number of different types of kelp, containing varying amounts of iodine. NYU's Langone Medical Centers states a person over the age of 4 should consume about 150 mcg of iodine per day. Instead of consuming kelp to improve hypothyroidism, consult with your medical doctor first to see what the best line of treatment is. Understand not all natural products are necessarily safe and may cause unintended side effects.
Supplements
Kelp may also be consumed in supplement form. Still, it is important to take not how much iodine is in each tablet. According to NYU's Langone Medical Center, a recent study of 17 different kelp supplements the amount of iodine variety from 45 mcg to 57,000 mcg. Though kelp is beneficial to add some iodine into your system, too much also has great negative side effects. Never take a nutritional supplement without consent from your health care provider.
References
- NYU Langone Medical Center: Kelp
- "Staying Healthy With Nutrition"; Elson Haas; 2006
