The thyroid, a small gland located in the front of your neck, is responsible for producing thyroid hormones that affect your metabolism. It is possible to develop hypothyroidism, where you do not produce enough of this hormone, or hyperthyroidism, where you produce too much. Kelp powder is a treatment option for hypothyroidism, although you should talk to your doctor before taking it.
Kelp for Thyroid
Kelp, a type of seaweed, is a natural source of iodine, which your body needs to create thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland contains 70 to 80 percent of the iodine in your body. Hypothyroidism, or low thyroid hormones, can be caused by a lack of iodine, so kelp is a treatment option for this condition.
Research
Kelp dietary supplements taken on a short-term basis greatly helped the production of the thyroid hormone in participants of a study published in the September/October 2003 issue of the journal "Endocrine Practice." However, researchers noted that more research is needed on the long-term effects of kelp supplements on the thyroid.
Considerations
Kelp powder is made from kelp seaweed that is dried, processed and then turned into powder. Mountain Rose Herbs explains that you should only take kelp for short periods of time off and on, such as for two weeks, then a two week break. This might lower the chances that you will obtain an excess of iodine that could potentially affect the thyroid negatively. However, follow the advice of your doctor for a recommendation on dosage and duration.
Warning
Do not take kelp or other iodine supplements for your thyroid unless your doctor recommends it, as hypothyroidism from iodine deficiency is not common in developed countries. Although iodine can potentially treat hypothyroidism, an excess can also cause the condition or other thyroid problems. Also, iodine can interact with some medications, including Warfarin, lithium or antithyroid medications. An excess of iodine can be toxic, and can be especially harmful to those with tuberculosis or kidney disease.
References
- MedlinePlus: Thyroid Diseases
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Iodine
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyrodism
- "Endocrine Practice"; Effects of Kelp Supplementation on Thyroid Function in Euthyroid Subjects; C.D. Clark, et al.; Sept. to Oct. 2003
- MountainRoseHerbs.com: Kelp Powder Profile
