Kelp

What does it do? Kelp is a sea vegetable that is a concentrated source of minerals, including iodine, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. KelpÑas a source of iodine assists in making thyroid hormones, which are necessary for maintaining normal metabolism in all cells of the body.

Where is it found? Kelp can be one of several brown-colored seaweed species called Laminaria.

In what conditions might kelp be supportive?

Â¥ iodine supplementation

Who is likely to be deficient? People who avoid sea vegetablesÑas well as dairy, seafood, processed food, and the salt shaker, can become deficient in iodine. Although rare in Western societies, iodine deficiency can cause low thyroid function, goiter, and cretinism.

How much should I take? Since the introduction of iodized salt, additional sources of iodine, such as kelp, are unnecessary. However, kelp can be consumed as a source of other minerals.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Extremely high intakes of kelp could provide too much iodine and interfere with normal thyroid function.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.