Your thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate numerous functions in the body. When it produces too little, various symptoms can result, including weight gain, fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, depression and joint pain, to name a few. Certain supplements, such as kelp, have been touted to increase the production of thyroid hormone, but using it may actually worsen your thyroid problems. Talk to your doctor before taking any kelp supplements.
Iodine and the Thyroid
Your body uses the chemical iodine to make thyroid hormone. Kelp has a rich store of iodine, which explains its popularity as a supplement for low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism. Iodine deficiency is a common cause of this condition worldwide. It is not, however, a leading cause in the Western world, where individuals regularly consume iodine-fortified salt and other foods, such as dairy products, that contain this substance. If you do not have an iodine deficiency, using kelp may actually worsen your thyroid issues. Your doctor can check your iodine levels.
Excess Iodine Worsening Hypothyroidism
While an iodine-rich supplement might increase production of thyroid hormone in the presence of a deficiency, taking kelp otherwise might actually produce the opposite effect.The American Thyroid Association reports that kelp and other iodine supplements can further suppress thyroid hormone production, which would worsen your symptoms.
Iodine and Hyperthyroidism
If you take kelp to treat hypothyroidism, it could actually lead to the exact opposite problem, hyperthyroidism or excess thyroid hormone production, according to the American Thyroid Association.
Thyrotoxicosis
Taking kelp or other iodine supplements could lead to a condition called thyrotoxicosis, also referred to as thyroid crisis or thyroid storm. It results from a rapid increase in thyroid hormone that requires immediate medical care. Symptoms would be similar to regular hyperthyroidism and might include sweating, rapid heart rate, tremors, weakness, irregular or rapid pulse and nervousness. If you are taking kelp or other iodine supplements and you experience any strange symptoms after starting, it is best to seek medical care. An article in the June 2006 issue of ‘’The Journal of General Internal Medicine’’ reports a case of a 39-year old women experiencing an episode of thyrotoxicosis after consuming kelp tea for a period of four weeks.
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