what is kelp

Giant kelp, a perennial, has a pneumatocyst on each blade. A 45-year-old woman with no history of thyroid disease experienced an extended period of thyroid hyperactivity (hyperthyroidism) shortly after beginning a kelp-containing diet. He strongly believes that scientific literacy is crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid falling for scams. Only one had serious complications (no contractions during delivery) and 9 required additional safety measures [17, 15, 18]. Do not consider user experiences as medical advice. Ten protein extracts from a particular sea kelp (wakame) were given to rats with high blood pressure. In one study with diabetic mice, a vanadium-based compound reduced blood sugar levels and diabetic symptoms (such as thirst, hunger, and weight loss), with no side effects [28]. Kelp, or brown algae, is found on the coasts of Korea and Japan. He then started working as a freelancer, mainly in science writing, editing, and consulting. They are continually monitored by our internal peer-review process and if we see anyone making material science errors, we don't let them write for us again. Kelp can have many therapeutic and nutritional benefits, as it is a A multitude of marine life lives in and depends upon kelp forests such as fish, invertebrates, marine mammals, and birds. Kelp may also have potential for diabetes and obesity, although research is still preliminary. The nitrate-phosphate-potassium ratio, or NPK, is negligible in readings of kelp meal nutrients; and for this reason, it is used primarily as a trace mineral source.Combining with fish meal increases the NPK ratio in kelp meal nutrients, releasing in … a mass of large seaweeds. Kelps are large brown algae seaweeds that make up the order Laminariales. Patients were given 1 to 2 grams of powdered kelp daily, and this treatment restored thyroid function, increasing the concentration of iodine in the urine [20]. All rights reserved. In the cases of inflammation, oxidative damage, herpes, brain protection, bone health, and blood pressure and fats, only animal and cell-based studies have been carried out. Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container or zipper-lock bag. Packaged in a number of formulations and dosages, sea kelp is widely available and fairly safe for use in most people. Others complained of excessive sweating and mucus formation after taking kelp-based supplements. Because it has a natural antibiotic synthesized into it, kelp assists the body in fighting off infection, so it is especially helpful during cold and flu season, or for those who are susceptible to sinus congestion due t… Giant kelp, sugarwack, southern kelp, and bull kelp are a few different varieties of kelp. In another study, fucoidan injections in mice led to enhanced cell survival and function in tissues with low blood supply (ischemia) [34, 35, 36, 37]. Kelp reduced the weight of liver and fat tissue, glucose, and fats (cholesterol and fatty acids) in the blood. Kelp is a plantable underwater plant block added to Minecraft in Java Edition 1.13 and Bedrock Edition 1.4.0. Nutrients: Sea kelp is a natural source of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and E, as well as minerals including zinc, iodine, magnesium, iron, potassium, copper and calcium. It increased the activity of a protein that breaks down fatty acids (lipoprotein lipase), dissolving the plaque in arteries [72]. Fucoidan also increased the growth of new vessels, improving communication with bones [63, 64]. In a clinical trial on 24 people, dietary fucoidan prevented the formation of blood clots by increasing the production of two messengers (hydrogen peroxide and prostacyclins) in the blood vessels [32]. Fucoxanthin, a pigment found in brown seaweed, may also boost weight loss [8, 9, 10, 11, 12]. This can lead to health risks. We are dedicated to providing the most scientifically valid, unbiased, and comprehensive information on any given topic. In a study (cell), seaweed extracts (including kelp) protected brain cells from death in cell models of Parkinson’s disease and improved cell survival. There are many different kinds, making up around 30 genera. Each species varies in iodine levels and nutrients, so the supplement strength and risk will also vary [90, 2, 77, 20]. Fucoidan given to aged female mice increased bone density and weight suggesting that fucoidan may play a role in treating age-related bone loss [65, 66, 67, 68]. As a kid, he suffered from inflammation, brain fog, fatigue, digestive problems, anxiety, depression, and other issues that were poorly understood in both conventional and alternative medicine. SelfHacked does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment. Additionally, this study also examined alanine aminotransferase levels, a protein whose presence correlates to a more severe HCV infection. Risks of Kelp for Dogs “Used in small amounts on a regular basis, I think kelp is a great thing to add to dogs’ diets,” Roberts says. Additionally, users with histories of thyroid issues claimed that the source of iodine present in kelp and its supplements worked better than previously prescribed iodine pills, even improving metabolism. In a rat model, fucoidan (present in kelp) was used to reduce inflammation caused by immune cells in the brain. Further clinical research is needed before concluding for certain that kelp helps with weight loss. A 1% or 5% fucoidan (from kelp) diet reduced fat in mice that were fed a high-fat diet over 12 weeks. But before you begin feeding your dog kelp, there are caveats you need to know. One-third of people are at risk of iodine deficiency. It's also a staple of the Japanese diet, a hormone helper, and is easy to add to…, If you don't eat some form of seaweed regularly, then you are seriously missing out. Of these, 26 were deemed to potentially lead to iodine intake above the accepted level [90]. One gram of powdered kelp contains approximately 200 μg of iodine. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It originates from a marine bacterium (via gene transfer) living on the surface of some sea algae species [95]. Similarly, a 40-year-old woman developed liver damage (hepatotoxicity) after drinking an herbal tea that contained kelp 3 times a day over 2 months. Kelp is more likely to contain these elements when harvested from areas with industrial development. SelfDecode’s personalized DNA reports can tell you which vitamins and mineral deficiencies you’re susceptible to, and which foods to consume to prevent these deficiencies. The rats also had less inflammation around the area of swelling, moved easier, and had better memory retention after fucoidan treatment [33]. Fucoidan, found in kelp, has been extensively researched for its cancer-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s important to eat kelp in moderation. Food manufacturers use alginates as thickening agents in weight loss products, beverages, and ice cream. Fucoidan reduced all important actors in the inflammatory cascade in cell studies. Kelp can be a healthy addition to a broader, nutritious diet, alongside a variety of fresh vegetables and other unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods. SelfHacked has the strictest sourcing guidelines in the health industry and we almost exclusively link to medically peer-reviewed studies, usually on PubMed. Users and supplement manufacturers have established unofficial doses based on trial and error. A 39-year-old woman presented with a case of hyperthyroidism after drinking a kelp-containing herbal tea. However, there’s no strong evidence that kelp can help reduce the risk of cancer in people. Recent studies have explored the role of sea vegetables in estrogen-related and colon cancers, osteoarthritis, and other conditions. Seaweed decreased an important marker of breast cancer recurrence by half (receptor uPAR) after 4 weeks [38, 39]. It’s rich in antioxidants; Kelp is packed with antioxidants – which reduce oxidative stress in the cells. Do not under any circumstances attempt to replace conventional cancer therapies with kelp, its active compounds, or any other supplements. Still, another cellular study (initiated in response to the case of severe side effects) found detectable arsenic levels in 8 out of 9 tested kelp supplements. Dried seaweed may have high heavy metal content, such as cadmium (Cd). In tissues with low blood supply, fucoidan decreased cell death proteins (including MAPK, JNK, and caspase-3) and harmful compounds (reactive oxygen species) [35]. Kelp Supplements. In one study (longitudinal), 171 late second-trimester abortions were performed using Laminaria (cervical preparation). Kelp is also an excellent source of vanadium, used in clinical studies to lower glucose levels in individuals suffering from diabetes type 1 and 2. Always consult a healthcare provider before beginning any supplementation regimen. The potential health benefits of kelp are wide-ranging – it can fight iodine deficiency, help with diabetes, and prevent blood clots. Food manufacturers use sodium alginate as a thickener in many foods, including ice cream and salad dressing. Specific benefits provided by spirulina are as a remedy for bad breath. It is one of the healthiest and most nutritious foods on the…, Wakame is a nutritious, edible seaweed that brings a unique taste and texture to a variety of dishes. It grows underwater if it has either a source block of water or flowing water above it. Some view it as a superfood due to its high concentration of vitamins and minerals — especially iodine, which we know is a super heavyweight champ in our fight against weight loss. Depending on the circumstances, doctors may [19]: Kelp has a high iodine content (200 to 400 µg). All in all, the evidence suggests that appropriate kelp doses may improve iodine deficiency and thyroid function. Kelp is a form of large brown sea algae. Mattresses for Scoliosis, Plus Tips for Shopping, 20 Small-Batch Recipes for Your COVID-19 Holiday, adding organic, dried kelp into soups and stews, using raw kelp noodles in salads and main dishes, sprinkling dried kelp flakes onto foods as a seasoning, serving it cold with oil and sesame seeds. Certain kelp supplement users complained of gaining weight and experiencing depression after long periods of use. They may help reduce markers of heart disease, protect the cells (reducing oxidative stress), reduce inflammation in blood vessels, reduces high blood pressure, and decrease blood clotting [14]. Live kelp underwater. Consult your doctor about the best kelp dose in your case. In a study of 15 patients with chronic hepatitis C, fucoidan from brown seaweed was used to treat virus-related liver diseases. The antioxidant properties of fucoidan (from kelp) were confirmed in a cell study that tested its 2 major components, sulfate and fucose. No clinical evidence supports the use of kelp for any of the conditions listed in this section. Laminarin is a specific type of kelp in the brown algae family rich in nutrients (iodine, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron). Both kelp and spirulina are rich in nutrient content and are known to possess many health benefits. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified healthcare providers because of something you have read on SelfHacked. Sea kelp and seaweed can both benefit your health with their nutritional value… Sea kelp is a fantastic source of vitamins, as is seaweed. Sticks made of Laminaria (a type of kelp) are used to induce birth and perform abortions. Be sure to discuss with your doctor if it may be helpful in your case and how you should take it. Kelp is a good source of several essential vitamins needed to help you function and stay healthy. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please leave a comment or contact us at [email protected]. To lower this risk, look for certified organic versions of sea vegetables and packages that mention that the product has been tested for arsenic. Specifically, kelp contains carotenoids and flavonoids. This later developed into low thyroid activity (hypothyroidism) caused by the excess iodine in the seaweed [73, 74, 75, 76]. In brain immune cells (microglia) fucoidan from brown seaweed showed promise for treating neurodegenerative diseases caused by inflammation [6, 56, 57]. The nice thing about kelp is that it is cheap to turn into supplement form, so a lot of Iodine supplements derive the mineral from it. It also protected from toxins, helping the cells avoid death (via hydrogen peroxide and caspase-3) [59, 60, 61, 62]. Kelp fertilizer is one of the best supplements you can use in your garden for a variety of reasons. What is Vitamin D? For example, vitamin K and calcium play a key role in bone health, and folate is essential for cell division. Kelp has potential cancer-fighting properties. Mice fed fats from seaweed had increased markers of weight loss in fat tissue. The reaction included breathing difficulty, nausea, and dangerously low blood pressure. Kelp is an alkaline food. These natural compounds help improve immunity levels, boost metabolism, aid weight loss, & reduce the risk of cancer. Required fields are marked *. Soda ash, which can be made from kelp… Seaweed is a word used to name many species of aquatic plants, specifically oceanic ones (hence the sea- prefix). Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any other side effects. This list does not cover all possible side effects. Your email address will not be published. Carlos is passionate about learning the mechanisms behind biological processes and communicating science to both academic and non-academic audiences. It caused no major side effects, with the exception of mild diarrhea at the beginning of the treatment period [27, 10]. Kelp also contains a complex long-chain carbohydrate (polysaccharide) called fucoidan. Kelp and other sea vegetables take up minerals from the waters they inhabit, and studies show they can also absorb heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, and lead. All of our content is written by scientists and people with a strong science background. In the US, you may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. Studies have shown that it contains a whopping 3000mcgs of iodine per gram of sheet which far exceeds what you need in a day. This article reviews some of the similarities and differences between Peloton and…. Dried kelp, or dasima in Korean, or kombu in Japanese, is a very important ingredient in the base broth of many Korean recipes, giving the broth a delicious umami flavor. Previous laminaria tent procedures possibly caused this sensitivity [91]. Cadmium can cause toxicity in the body [81]. Consuming concentrated amounts of kelp can introduce too much iodine into the body. In human stem cells, fucoidan boosted the development of cells that build bones, called osteoblasts. Seaweeds can grow like underwater forests, kelp beds (a type of brown seaweed) cover up to 25% of the world’s coastlines. Kelp is high in antioxidants, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which help fight against disease-causing free radicals. Studies on isolated cells indicate that a compound found in kelp called fucoidan may also help prevent the spread of lung cancer and prostate cancer. Last medically reviewed on March 30, 2020, Kelp’s iodine content is just one reason to consider it a superfood. The high presence of vitamin K in kelp, along with fucoidan, helps to keep your bones strong. A study of 15 postmenopausal women, 10 of whom were breast cancer survivors, looked at the effects of brown seaweed supplementation over a 3-month period (alternating with placebo). Laminaria sticks can mechanically assist in terminating pregnancy from the first to the late second trimester of pregnancy. What Food Does Your Body Need To Stay Healthy? Dietary fiber, peptides, lipids, and minerals protect the heart. This enzyme is often a target for blood pressure-lowering drugs [70, 71]. Our goal is to not have a single piece of inaccurate information on this website. Learn how your comment data is processed. Another type of seaweed – Gracilaria changii – is rich in fiber content and essential amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) [4, 3]. It also helps in the treatment of chroni… It also partially improved bone growth in rabbits with defects in skull formation [63]. Neither players nor dispenserscan remove the w… Though kelp may look like a plant, it is actually a form of sea algae. Your email address will not be published. As a huge source of iodine, kelp supplements may interfere with thyroid replacement therapies. The tea consumption led to the formation of a goiter, an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland [77, 74]. Fucoidan also blocked inflammatory proteins (cytokines IL-1β and TNF-alpha) and the inflammation pathway (reducing NF-kβ and p38 MAPK) [6, 51, 49, 52, 53, 54, 55]. Learn about the major genera of kelp, their ecological and economic importance, and some of their characteristics in this article. Lower activity reduces fat breakdown, leading to fewer fats being absorbed after a meal [31]. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Simply add 1 1/2 cup dry beans to a pot, then cover completely with water. It also contains a natural fiber called alginate. Kelp is not only becoming a popular ingredient in dietary cooking, but also a popular supplement. If iodine deficiency is severe and prolonged, the thyroid gland enlarges and forms a goiter. Below is a summary of the existing animal and cell-based research, which should guide further investigational efforts. However, there are better and safer methods for inducing labor or abortion. Bull kelp, on the other hand, is an annual plant and has only one pneumatocyst holding up its many blades. For example, excessive iodine can overstimulate the thyroid. Kelp can have many therapeutic and nutritional benefits, as it is a rich source of iodine, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, proteins, and healthy carbohydrates. A 54-year-old woman experienced hair loss worsening, memory loss, fatigue, and nausea due to exceeding the prescribed amount of kelp supplements. Align your health hacks with your genes for optimal health & cognitive function. Kelp, a type of seaweed, is full of healthy nutrients that can benefit your health and possibly even prevent disease. Uric Acid, IQ, Productivity & Lifespan: Is There a Link? It’s a natural source of essential: You may have seen this marine plant at the beach. Kelp is a great source of vanadium. This can happen if people use supplements or consume too much kelp. Importantly, the FDA-recommended dosage for daily intake of iodine is 225 μg. In ideal conditions, kelp can grow up to 18 inches per day, and in stark contrast to the colorful and slow-growing corals, the giant kelp canopies tower above the ocean floor. Read on to find out more. Vanadium also decreased cholesterol levels. What is Kelp Fertilizer? Kelp is a type of large, brown seaweed that grows in shallow, nutrient-rich saltwater near coastal fronts around the world. Despite the positive laboratory findings, these results did not lead to significant clinical improvements [46, 47]. Kelp has been an essential component of East Asian diets for centuries. Supplement/Herb/Nutrient-drug interactions can be dangerous and, in rare cases, even life-threatening. People in some regions of the world may digest large-chain carbohydrates present in seaweed more easily than others. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The supplements also decreased the activity of blood clot stimulators (platelets and fibrin). Here are 8 surprising health benefits of wakame…. Two kinds of kelp grow on the eastern Pacific coast: giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) and bull kelp (Nereocystis leutkeana). It’s not suitable for those with hyperthyroidism. Our science team must pass long technical science tests, difficult logical reasoning and reading comprehension tests. Fucoidan infusion decreased clotting in bleeding in rats. Kelp is more than capable as an adequate daily womens vitamin because it is packed with other necessary nutrients such as iron, calcium and potassium. Selfhacked LLC does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Kelp isn’t only a nutrient-dense food that’s low in fat and calories. It differs slightly in color, flavor, and nutrient profile from the type you may see in sushi rolls. For example, powdered kelp can be used as an ingredient in green smoothies, hair and face masks, or just dissolved in water and drank as is. The benefits of sea kelp. But you can eat natural kelp in many different forms, including: Because it absorbs the nutrients from its surrounding marine environment, kelp is rich in: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) say that seaweed, such as kelp, is one of the best natural food sources of iodine, an essential component in thyroid hormone production. Carlos spent 9 years in the laboratory investigating mineral transport in plants. Levels of other toxic heavy metals, such as arsenic, lead, aluminum, and mercury in Korean seaweed were determined to be very low and not a health threat [82, 83, 84]. It decreased fasting and post-meal blood sugar levels and serum lipid (fatty acid) levels. Kelp is an excellent source of iodine, potassium, magnesium, iron, and calcium [2]. Vanadium mimicked insulin in animal studies. Giant kelp has been known to live as much as seven years. Kelp may help boost a dog’s iodine levels and support thyroid function if dosed correctly. However, an extract with seaweed polyphenols was ineffective at lowering blood sugar levels (both before and after meals) in a trial on 26 people [26]. In another trial on 65 people, polyphenols extracted from two different kelp species lowered blood sugar, insulin resistance, and inflammatory markers [25]. Kelp can assist you in weight loss, improve diabetes risk factors, and prevent or treat certain blood disorders. A plus sign next to the number “[1+, 2+, etc...]” means that the information is found within the full scientific study rather than the abstract. Jonathan Ritter, PharmD, PhD (Pharmacology), Top 22 Moringa Health Benefits + Side Effects. From the excessive iodine, the thyroid glands swelled, leading to hypothyroidism and reducing liver function [78, 79, 74]. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. We understand that reading individual, real-life experiences can be a helpful resource, but it is never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider. However, sea kelp can often have large and ranging levels of iodine which can be harmful. Two women experienced anaphylactic shock, an extremely severe and possibly fatal allergic reaction when Laminaria (a type of kelp) sticks were used to terminate a pregnancy. Liquid kelp fertilizer is a natural alternative to artificial fertilizers used for growing plants but without any by-products or environmentally damaging chemicals. Inducing Labor and Facilitating Abortion Procedures, Animal and Cell Research (Lack of Evidence), 4) Allergic Reactions to Laminaria Sticks. Inflammation and stress are considered risk factors of many chronic diseases. Studies also suggest that brown seaweed may influence glycemic management and reduce blood glucose levels. Different kelp supplements exist with varying amounts of proteins and other nutrients. It improved thyroid function in a study of 7 patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities and hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency. This implies that it is a natural way to maintain a … In a rabbit model, fucoidan helped create new vessels, essential for communication with bones and bone repair. Acute HIV infection occurs a few weeks after someone contracts HIV. Sea kelp, also known as seaweed, has long been touted as a natural remedy for a number of ailments. A UK-based study examining the accuracy of food labeling on edible seaweed and algae products surveyed 224 products, and only 10% of them contained information regarding iodine content. Should You Buy a Peloton or NordicTrack Bike? kelp: [noun] any of various large brown seaweeds (order Laminariales). Joe Cohen won the genetic lottery of bad genes. Its compounds may also block tumor growth and spreading [2]. Kelp also produces a compound called sodium alginate. NordicTrack and Peloton are two popular brands of exercise bikes. To find the best mattress that works for you and your scoliosis, here are tips for what to look for and seven we suggest. It’s mostly in the animal and cell stage and clinical trials have yet to determine if it may be useful in anticancer therapy. SelfHacked © 2013 – 2020 All Rights Reserved. Results suggest that kelp may help slow the spread of colon and breast cancers. Several kelp species can make up one forest, the same way that different species of trees are found in a forest on land. Seaweed vs Kelp- Is There Any Difference?. Although limited, the evidence suggests that kelp and its compounds may help lower blood sugar and insulin resistance. Fucoidan reduced the growth of leukemia cells and killed 2 out of 4 lines tested in a study. However, excessive amounts may have the opposite effect. Here’s what to know about using CBD to help you get some shut-eye, as well as recommendations on the best CBD oils and products for sleep. In addition, seaweed supplements and algae extracts, including the brown seaweed Laminaria, reduced colon, breast, and prostate cancer activity [40, 41, 42, 43]. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Kelp grows in "forests" in cold waters (usually less than 68 F). This type of sea algae is already a staple in many Asian cuisines. In fact, this diet introduced kelp into different regions across the world. is a clickable link to peer-reviewed scientific studies. Never exceed this recommended dosage without consultation [80]. Enjoy the flavors of the holidays with practical portions. Of the 10 extracts, 4 experienced decreased blood pressure after both a single dose and routine use [69]. Users regarded kelp as an effective agent for weight loss and an essential ingredient in energy-boosting juices. Different methods and amounts are used depending on the trimester (inserted into the cervix). Studies suggest that alginate may help stop the gut from absorbing fat. In another cell study, fucoidan increased proteins that promote bone and mineral formation (via BMP-2, osteocalcin, and ALP). © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Kelp supplements have been linked to autoimmune disorders that cause red blood cells and blood clotting factors to become defective and attacked by the body’s immune system due to the possible presence of toxic metal (arsenic) [86, 87, 88, 89]. There are about 30 different genera. Kelp is the largest and fastest-growing marine algae or seaweed, and belongs to the brown algae group known as Phaeophyta - so although kelp may resemble an underwater plant, it is in fact a protist, the same family of organisms as moulds and amoebas. Smelting it in a furnace, smoker, or campfire yields dried kelp. Depending on the type of kelp or seaweed, the nutrient profile can vary greatly [3]. Kelp is a multicellular alga from the brown-algae group of algae and is a natural/organic source of dietary minerals. The blood tests also present a decrease in alanine aminotransferase levels. Fucoidan blocked the growth of the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) in infected mice. Kelp also contains the following vitamins and minerals: These vitamins and nutrients have health benefits. Health Benefits & Dosage, Ripen the cervix with synthetic prostaglandins, Give intravenous Pitocin (synthetic oxytocin). This includes vitamin K, a nutrient which aids with blood clotting. https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/benefits-of-kelp Always consult your doctor before supplementing and let them know about all drugs and supplements you are using or considering. Including antioxidant-rich food in the diet may help prevent them. The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other medical body. The sticks cause the release of prostaglandins, which act as hormones that help initiate womb contractions [15, 16]. Fucoidan supplements prevented blood clotting in mice. Maintains pH Balance. Learn about risk factors, diagnosis, prevention, where to seek support, and more. Start your journey to optimal health with SelfDecode today. Kelp is also used as food on mollusk farms. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. There are around 30 varieties of kelp. Our team comprises of trained MDs, PhDs, pharmacists, qualified scientists, and certified health and wellness specialists. "Beans without kelp taste earthy, [but] with kelp there is a hint of brine," she says. Fucoidan killed cancer cells by activating the immune system (via natural killer cells) [40, 44]. Despite its appearance, kelp is not a plant; it is a heterokont. Carlos received his PhD and MS from the Universidad de Sevilla. These may be hazardous for health. Fucoidan, a key component of seaweed, may fight cancer and stop tumor growth, based on both cell and animal models. Kelp can be planted on a broad variety of blocks. Kelp may also improve diabetes, reduce blood clots, and even help fight hepatitis C and breast cancer [1]. Kelp is a brown seaweed that grows as big as a tree in the ocean. Kelp doesn’t have roots like most plants do, but anchors itself to the ocean floor through a system called a "holdfast." The high iodine content in kelp supports the production of thyroid hormones T3 and T4. Again, the results are promising but limited. These 9 iodine-rich foods can help keep you healthy. Their reviews do not represent the opinions of SelfHacked. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of kelp for any of the below-listed uses until the existing results are replicated in larger, more robust clinical trials. It’s best to obtain nutrients from dietary sources, where possible. How Kelp Can Actually Help You Lose Weight and Balance Your Hormones, Why Seaweed Is Super Healthy and Nutritious, 8 Surprising Health Benefits of Wakame Seaweed, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. Levels of arsenic were higher than the FDA tolerance level for certain food products. In the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, we’ve got to do everything we can to keep our bodies as healthy as possible. It also improved liver function tests and increased energy use at rest [29]. The kelp plant is made up of three parts: the blade (the leaf-like structure), the stipe (the ste… However, the studies listed should not be interpreted as supportive of any health benefit. A study published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism found that a carotenoid compound in the chloroplasts of brown seaweed called fucoxanthin may promote weight loss in people with obesity when combined with pomegranate oil. In a cell study, alginate (a carbohydrate present in the walls of algae and seaweed) reduced the activity of a protein in the pancreas that breaks down fats (pancreatic lipase). You must consult your doctor before acting on any content on this website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. Different types of kelp are used, including winged kelp, laminarin, and fingered tangle. Below, we will discuss some preliminary research on kelp’s potential anticancer. Mice given fucoidan had better survival rates. Some even complained of developing the dependency on the supplements for thyroid function, due to the resulting iodine imbalance. Though its appearance is similar to that of plants, it is technically not a plant, but a protist. The treatment improved immune response (innate and adaptive), increasing antibody production [58]. Oral vanadium supplements (150 to 300 mg daily) given to 14 type 1 diabetic patients (longitudinal study) for 30 months decreased fasting blood sugar levels by over 30%. Kelp is a type of seaweed or algae belonging to the order Laminariales. Nutrients from seaweed carry potential health benefits. Consumption of kelp-based food, pills, and supplement helps fight iodine deficiency, improves thyroid, and offers natural rich minerals. A study published in the journal Food Chemistry found that alginate could help block lipase — an enzyme that digests fat — by up to 72 percent. This is due to its high chlorophyll content. Excessive amounts of iodine, similar to deficiencies, can alter thyroid hormones released and impair overall thyroid function [92, 74, 93, 94]. Like trees in a forest, these giant algae provide food and shelter for many organisms. Fucoidan is responsible for several potential effects of kelp, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cancer fighting [5, 6, 7]. Kelp is available in a variety of forms, and people can consume it as a food or a supplement. Powdered kelp is the simplest form of kelp supplements—and probably the most versatile one. Between 100,000 and 170,000 wet tons of kelp are harvested from California waters each year. 4. Since these are lost during monthly cycles, pregnancy, or lactation, women should especially take note of all the things that kelp has to offer. They increase energy levels, improve liver function, boost immunity levels, possess anti-inflammatory benefits, help reduce the risk of heart disease, AIDS, cancer, help with weight-loss programs, protect cells from damage due to exposure to heavy metals and X-rays. Choose the thickest you can find. Also like a terrestrial forest, kelp forests experience seasonal changes. Fucoidan from kelp may kill cancer cells and stop their growth [5]. Information is shared for educational purposes only. Fucoidan showed antioxidant effects and has the potential to be used as a natural antioxidant [7]. Because kelp supplements are not approved for any health conditions, there is no official dose. In a brain and spinal cord cell study, fucoidan reduced inflammation (blocking nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 production). Most potential health benefits are supported by only a few, small clinical trials. Kelp is a seaweed that belongs to the brown algae family Laminaiaceae. Players can eat dried kelp faster than other foods. Fucoidan improved animal behavior, reduced harmful compounds (TNF-alpha), prevented neuron loss, and protected the cells from damage (reducing reactive oxygen species) that can cause neurodegeneration [48, 49, 50]. In a cell study, 5 organic brown seaweed (kelp) extracts blocked an important enzyme that may contribute to high blood pressure (Angiotensin-converting Enzyme, ACE). You can take kelp as food, pill, powder, or tincture. The opinions expressed in this section are solely those of kelp users, who may or may not have medical or scientific training. Add a few dried sheets of kombu (a type of kelp), one raw garlic clove, and half a raw onion, then leave on the countertop overnight. Antioxidant minerals, such as manganese and zinc, help combat oxidative stress and may help protect cardiovascular health and prevent cancer. Note that each number in parentheses [1, 2, 3, etc.] If you want to use it as a supportive measure, talk to your doctor to avoid any unexpected interactions. If flowing water is above it, the kelp plant transforms the flowing water into a water source block when the plant grows into it. Speak with a doctor before taking kelp supplements and never use them as a replacement for approved medical therapies. Kelp Boosts Glutathione: The Japanese call several Pacific species of kelp Kombu. Certain kelp-based supplements contain that in one tablet. In a Japanese clinical trial on 13 people, eating 15-30 grams of kelp per day suppressed thyroid function, resulting in low thyroid hormone levels [22]. This could benefit people with type 2 diabetes. Join SelfHacked today and start the journey of improving your life. This caused iodine toxicity, impairing thyroid function, and possible arsenic poisoning (present in the patient’s urine) that caused the symptoms [80, 74]. In another trial on 36 healthy people, kelp increased the levels of the hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland (TSH) [21]. We believe that the most accurate information is found directly in the scientific source. These cultures … Kelp is a seaweed rich in fucoidan and fucoxanthin. In another study in cells and mice, fucoidan stopped the growth and spread of lung cancer cells by blocking growth pathways (Akt–mTOR and NF-kB) [45, 44]. Algin, an emulsifying and bonding agent, is extracted from kelp and used in these products. After 8 to 10 months of treatment, hepatitis C virus (HCV) levels in the blood significantly decreased [46]. A study of Xanthigen, which is a type of kelp, showed reduced body weight, waist circumference, and body and liver fat content in 151 non-diabetic obese women. The Japanese, whose diet includes more marine algae, have a gut bacterium for seaweed digestion that is not present in Americans or Europeans. None informed of possible arsenic contamination [85]. In nature, different kelp species (such as Laminaria digitata, Laminaria Hyperborea, Saccharina latissima, Alaria esculenta) that carry more proteins may contain less long-chain carbohydrates (such as fucoidan), and vice-versa [95, 90]. Kelp, any of about 30 genera of brown algae (order Laminariales) that grow as large coastal seaweeds in colder seas of both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. The following purported benefits are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies and some animal research. It grows in shallow, nutrient-rich saltwater, near coastal fronts around the world. Powdered seaweed pills reduced sugar levels in a study of 20 subjects with type 2 diabetes (RCT), taken daily for 4 weeks. Our science team is put through the strictest vetting process in the health industry and we often reject applicants who have written articles for many of the largest health websites that are deemed trustworthy. However, too much iodine can also lead to thyroid problems, according to research. The benefits of sea kelp are indisputable, although there are questions about the extent of its effectiveness. Fucoxanthin, a pigment from seaweed, produced these effects [12, 30]. You already know to eat your daily servings of vegetables, but when was the last time you gave any thought to your sea vegetables? Kelp Meal Nutrients. Kelp, or brown algae, is found on the coasts of Korea and Japan. Ideas for incorporating kelp into the diet include: You can find kelp in Japanese or Korean restaurants or grocery stores. Also, the pills increased HDL levels, which help prevent heart disease associated with diabetes [23, 24]. Kelp is sold in huge sheets in many Asian markets, as well as most whole-foods stores. This can also lead to a lack of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism) [13, 2]. Kelp: Kelp is a vegetable that comes from the ocean and is popular in Japanese cuisine. 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