Kelp

Kelp brown seaweed supplements are available in several pharmaceutical forms, depending on the therapeutic or preventive purpose:

• Tablets – such as Swanson Kelp, which provides 225 mcg of iodine per tablet
• Capsules – such as Secom's Kelp with Folic Acid
• Organic powder – such as that offered by Niavis, 100% natural, intended for use in food and beverages, with a diverse intake of nutrients (vitamins, fiber, antioxidants)

Kelp is particularly recommended for:

• Supporting thyroid function, especially in cases of early hypothyroidism, due to its natural iodine content – essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4).
• Detoxifying the body, through its ability to bind heavy metals and toxins, contributing to their elimination through the digestive tract.
• Stimulating energy metabolism, through the role of iodine in regulating mitochondrial function.
• Digestive health, due to its high fiber content (up to 50% in the powder form), which supports intestinal transit.
• Antioxidant protection, provided by its polyphenol and antioxidant vitamin (A, C, E) content.
• General health, through the intake of essential minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron) and trace elements.

The recommended daily dose varies depending on the form and concentration of the product:

• For Kelp tablets: 1 tablet per day, taken with water.
• For Kelp powder: 0.5 g per day (approximately one level teaspoon), added to soups, smoothies, salads, or baked goods.

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose to avoid iodine overdose.

Kelp supplements are contraindicated in the following situations:

• Diagnosed or treated hyperthyroidism – iodine supplementation may aggravate hormonal imbalance
• Autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's) 
• People with allergies to seaweed or any other ingredients in the product

If you suffer from severe chronic diseases, seek medical advice before taking Kelp.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, iodine supplementation is important for the neurological development of the fetus, but should only be done under medical supervision to avoid excess.

In people with thyroid nodules, the use of Kelp should be clinically evaluated, as iodine may promote hyperfunction of some autonomous nodules.

Although generally well tolerated, consumption of Kelp may cause:

• Iodine-induced hyperthyroidism, especially at high doses or with prolonged use
• Gastrointestinal irritation – bloating, flatulence, abdominal discomfort, especially at the beginning of administration
• Rare skin rashes or allergic reactions, especially in people with sensitivity to seaweed.

Kelp may interact with certain medications such as antithyroid drugs, which may interact with iodine and alter the effectiveness of treatment.

In the case of goitrogenic foods – excessive consumption of soy, cabbage, cauliflower may interfere with iodine absorption.

Kelp overdose may manifest as:

• Tremors, tachycardia, insomnia, in cases of iatrogenic hyperthyroidism
• Electrolyte imbalances and digestive irritation

If overdose is suspected, it is recommended to stop administration and seek medical evaluation of thyroid function.

Kelp should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and direct light. Kelp powder should be stored in a cool, dry place, in its original packaging, tightly closed, to prevent oxidation and loss of properties. Keep out of reach of children.

• WebMD, Health Benefits of Kelp
• Healthline, Benefits of Kelp
• NIH, Kelp
• PubMed, Effects of Kelp Supplementation on Thyroid Function in Euthyroid Subjects