Kelp
Kelp is a brown alga and a vegetable from the sea, it is a concentrated source of minerals, including magnesium, calcium, iodine, iron and potassium. It also contains fucoidan and fucoxanthin.
Kelp may help to
- prevent iron deficiency
- stop brain development abnormalities
- enhance weight loss
- fight some diseases
- protect against bone loss
What are the benefits?
1) Helps to prevent an iron deficiency
Kelp is one of the natural richest sources of iodine, which is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones regulate the body’s energy production, promotes growth and development and helps to burn fat, which means kelp could prevent an Iron deficiency.
2) It may help to prevent brain development abnormalities
Iron deficiencies during pregnancy have been linked to Brain damage and irreversible mental retardation in the developing brain. (1) Because Kelp is high in Iodine these health problems may be prevented if you get enough in your diet.
3) It may help with weight loss
this sea vegetable contains molecules known as alginates in certain varieties. These molecules can potentially help to get rid of fat as waste instead of storing it in the body.
Certain varieties of kelp also contain a protein called Fucoxanthin which according to research may help to reduce fat tissue significantly. (2)
4) It may help to fight some diseases
Kelp is also rich in vitamins and minerals, like vitamin c, zinc and manganese but also antioxidants such as alkaloids, carotenoids and flavonoids, these can all help to fight oxidative stress which is well documented for contributing to a series of health issues and diseases.
5) It may protect against bone loss
As we get older our bodies start to deteriorate slowly and our bones are no exception they tend to lose their density and become weaker which may cause osteoporosis. Research has shown that oral administration of 280 mg/kg LMW fucoidan and 100 mg/kg calcium carbonate increased bone density. (3)
Kelp synergy, and works well with
- Vitamin B Complex for those whose thyroids are not working could feel sluggish and B Complex will help you to metabolise your food more efficiently and will boost your energy levels.
- Horsetail could be rich in Silica, which would help to maintain healthy hair, skin, and nails.
Some things to consider
Those with thyroid problems or those who are on thyroid medication should check with their doctor because using this product.
Resources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3074887/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15896707
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26271462
