Norwegian Kelp Benefits

Norwegian kelp is a type of brown seaweed found along the Atlantic coast of Norway. While there are many types of kelp, Ray Sahelian, M.D., reports that there is no scientific evidence indicating that Norwegian kelp is more beneficial than kelp grown in other oceans. Kelp, in general, contains a variety of vitamins and minerals that help to sustain proper health; however, further research is necessary to validate these claims. Consult with your medical caregiver prior to incorporating kelp into your dietary regimen.

Minerals

According to Ryan Drum, B.Sc., Ph.D., kelp is abundant in 18 vital minerals, such as potassium, calcium, zinc and manganese. The most prominent nutrient, however, is iodine, as all vertebrate animals require iodine in order to sustain life. Iodine, which is trapped in the thyroid gland, fuses with the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine and thyroxine. The Linus Pauling Institute reports that the fusion between iodine and thyroid hormones supports physiological health, such as growth and development as well as metabolic and reproductive functions. Deficiencies in iodine may contribute to brain damage and development abnormalities.

Vitamins

The USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory notes that kelp contains 14 essential vitamins, such as niacin, vitamin K and folate. MedlinePlus states that vitamin K prevents arterial blood clotting for healthy lungs and a healthy heart and brain. A 1/2 cup serving of kelp provides 20 percent of the recommended daily value of folate. Folate aids in the production of red blood cells as well as cell growth and division. The Human Nutrition Fact Sheet of Ohio State University recommends folate as an especially significant nutrient for pregnant women as deficiencies in folate have been linked to neural tube and anencephaly birth defects. Since folate is a water-soluble vitamin, it is not stored by the body and therefore requires adequate replenishment.

Sodium Alginate

A study published in the "Canadian Medical Association Journal" discovered that the sodium alginate content found in kelp helps to prevent absorption of radioactive elements, such as strontium-90. Strontium-90 is a byproduct of nuclear power generation and weapons production. Sodium alginate may also serve as a heavy metal detoxifying agent against toxic heavy metals, such as plutonium, barium and cadmium.

External Treatment

In addition to kelp's internal medicinal properties, Drum recommends kelp as a treatment option for external wounds as well. Coastal regions of Ireland, the Mediterranean and the Pacific Northwest have a history of utilizing kelp in a bath as a method for soothing muscle and joint aches, eczema, ectoparasites and prostatic swelling.