Your thyroid gland produces hormones that control your metabolism. It works to maintain a delicate hormonal balance. Too much or too little thyroid hormone can cause adverse health effects. Iodine is one of two nutrients needed to produce thyroid hormones. Kelp -- an iodine-rich seaweed is often marketed for thyroid underactive thyroid, also called hypothyroidism. Consult your doctor before taking kelp for your thyroid.
Thyroid Function
Your thyroid gland is situated at the front of your neck. It produces two hormones known as T3 and T4. These hormones control the rate at which your body uses energy. It also controls your body temperature. Your thyroid gland uses the mineral iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to manufacture thyroid hormones. A deficiency of either nutrient can prevent your thyroid from producing enough hormones, leading to hypothyroidism.
Positive Effect
Low thyroid function can cause constipation, fatigue, hair loss, depression and weight gain, according to PubMed Health. You have a higher risk if you are female. Kelp may help improve your thyroid function. According to a study published in the September 2003 issue of the journal "Endocrine Practice," short-term kelp supplementation positively impacts thyroid function. Keep in mind that further studies are needed to determine long-term effects.
Negative Effect
Iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism. However, high iodine intake can cause hyperthyroidism, this is also called thyrotoxicosis. Iodine is a trace mineral, which means your body requires only a small amount. It is important to use caution with kelp supplements because too much iodine increases your thyrotoxicosis risk. The June 2006 issue of the "Journal of General Internal Medicine," reported an iodine-induced thyrotoxicosis case involving a 39-year-old woman that consumed a kelp-containing tea for four weeks for thyroid support.
Considerations
Kelp supplements are commonly marketed for underactive thyroid. Keep in mind that iodine deficiency is uncommon, since the introduction of iodized salt. Note also that the most common low thyroid cause is Hashimoto's thyroiditis -- an abnormal response that causes your immune system to attack your thyroid, according to PubMed Heath. The recommended daily iodine intake is 150 mcg daily. Sea bass, cod and haddock are good dietary sources. There is no specific kelp dosage for thyroid support, so use caution and take it only after speaking to your doctor.
References
- "Endocrine Practice"; Effects of Kelp Supplementation on Thyroid Function in Euthyroid Subjects; C.D Clark; September 2003
- PubMed Health: Hypothyroidism
- "Journal of General Internal Medicine"; Iodine-Induced Thyrotoxicosis After Ingestion of Kelp-Containing Tea; June 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Iodine in the Diet
