Seaweed supplements are popular for their medicinal and nutritional properties, including regulating the thyroid, controlling blood pressure, aiding digestion, and providing vitamins and minerals. However, there are also potential side effects, such as allergic reactions and high levels of arsenic.
Seaweed supplements are extracts of green or brown algae and are used for their medicinal and nutritional properties. People can take these dietary supplements in capsule, tea, tablet, powder, or dry form. Seaweed extract is used to help regulate the thyroid, control blood pressure, and offer nutritional support.
Seaweed supplement sales are generally high, as the extract is a popular supplement. Since kelp is believed to help improve thyroid function, people who want to lose weight often take kelp capsules to boost their metabolism. Seaweed can also help regulate iodine levels in the body, which can induce weight loss.
Some people take a kelp supplement to help control their high blood pressure. In Japan, many people choose to use seaweed and garlic instead of the salt and pepper traditionally used for seasoning in the Western Hemisphere. This combination of flavorings is considered much healthier in the diet.
People with slow digestive systems can take seaweed to improve digestion. Those who suffer from arthritis can also find relief within the herbal remedy, as it has been found to help reduce the inflammation that causes arthritic symptoms. A seaweed detox is a popular way to purify the blood and maintain optimal kidney health. Consuming kelp regularly is also said to provide a clear and dewy complexion.
You can also get nutritional benefits from kelp supplements. Seaweed powder is often added to specialty smoothies or shakes to provide additional minerals and vitamins. A typical dose of seaweed consists of one to three capsules twice a day, usually taken with meals. Seaweed tea is steeped for the same purpose. Many Japanese foods contain seaweed for these and other health benefits.
Although kelp can offer many nutritional and health benefits, there are also many side effects of kelp. Blood thinning or abnormal bleeding can be caused by taking kelp supplements. People with allergies, particularly iodine, may experience an allergic reaction while taking kelp supplements, and should stop use immediately if this occurs. Women who are pregnant, nursing, or trying to get pregnant should avoid this supplement.
Caution should be exercised when taking kelp supplements. Some studies have found that dietary aids contain high levels of arsenic. This is due to the high presence of toxic metals in the ocean. People who regularly consume contaminated seaweed can experience arsenic poisoning, which can include memory loss, fatigue, kidney damage, and death.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN