Kelp tablets are nothing but supplements that contain kelp, a type of seaweed found abundantly in the temperate and coastal oceans of the world. Kelp is mainly known as a source of iodine and several other vital nutrients. Let’s find out more about this seaweed and its supplements, through this Buzzle article.
Kelp is basically a type of seaweed that belongs to the class of brown algae. There are approximately 30 genera of kelp, and they can be found largely in the temperate and polar coastal oceans of the world. Many species grow quite rapidly to form the vast underwater kelp forests in shallow oceans.
Kelp is an extremely nutritious food, and this is the reason why it is increasingly incorporated in nutritional supplements. Kelps that are more commonly used for manufacturing nutritional supplements are, laminaria, rockweed, and bladderwrack. Their supplements are available in several different forms, such as powder, liquid, tablets, and capsules.
Kelp Benefits
It is a rich source of some of the important vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, B1, B2, C, D, E, and K, niacin, potassium, calcium, zinc, silicon, magnesium, selenium, chromium, and iron. It is incredibly rich in iodine, which is required by the thyroid gland to synthesize the thyroid hormones that regulate the rate of metabolism.
All these make kelp tablets an important nutritional supplement, especially for conditions like hypothyroidism, cretinism, and goiter. By providing the required amount of iodine, this seaweed can help stimulate the thyroid gland to produce enough thyroid hormones.
These tablets or supplements are also used for promoting hair growth. Sea kelp is believed to be effective in stimulating the growth of hair and nails, and improve their general condition. Due to its high iodine content, it can help the thyroid gland regulate the rate of metabolism. This in turn, can help maintain an ideal body weight. A deficiency of iodine can adversely affect the functions of the thyroid gland, which can result in sluggish metabolism and weight gain.
The supplements of this seaweed may provide relief in conditions, like high blood sugar, high blood pressure, rheumatism, and arthritis as well. Kelp is also an antioxidant and anticoagulant, and it can boost the immune system.
Possible Side Effects
It can cause a few side effects, especially if it is not taken in the appropriate dosage. This seaweed contains a significant amount of iodine, and a high level of iodine can cause thyroid problems. The excessive intake of kelp and its supplements can also cause nausea and diarrhea. On the other hand, individuals allergic to this seaweed can experience itching, skin rash, hives, watery and itchy eyes, and shortness of breath after taking its supplements.
The long-term use of kelp can adversely affect the absorption of some vital nutrients like iron, potassium, and sodium. It can also interact with some medications and supplements. This seaweed has anticoagulant properties, due to which people with bleeding disorders, as well as those taking anticoagulant drugs should not take it or its tablets without consulting their physicians.
Moreover, the oceans are getting increasingly polluted with toxic and heavy metals like arsenic, and seaweeds harvested from a polluted area can get contaminated with such metals. So, kelp supplements need to be taken with adequate care and precaution. To avoid contaminated products, be sure to buy a supplement only from a reputed and established manufacturer. People suffering from an underlying health condition, such as thyroid problems or bleeding disorders, as well as those taking any kind of medications or supplements, should always talk to a health care provider before taking the supplements of this seaweed.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be replaced for the advice of a medical professional.
