From the Guidelines
Sea moss, a type of red algae, is a rich source of iodine and other minerals, but its consumption should be approached with caution due to the potential risk of excessive iodine intake. According to a 2018 study published in the Proceedings of the Nutrition Society 1, seaweed, including sea moss, can have a very broad range of iodine levels, from 11 to 6118 µg/g of dried seaweed, which could lead to an iodine excess beyond the European tolerable upper limit of 600 µg daily. Some key points to consider when consuming sea moss include:
- Iodine content: Sea moss is a rich source of iodine, with potential benefits for thyroid support, but excessive consumption can cause thyroid issues 1.
- Dosage: Typical consumption includes 1-2 tablespoons of sea moss gel daily, 1000-1500mg daily in capsule form, or added to smoothies.
- Preparation: The gel is made by soaking dried sea moss in water, blending it, and refrigerating until it thickens.
- Potential benefits: Thyroid support, immune system enhancement, digestive health improvement, and skin hydration.
- Precautions: Those with thyroid conditions or taking blood-thinning medications should consult a healthcare provider before using sea moss due to the potential risks associated with excessive iodine intake 1.
From the Research
Definition of Seamoss
- Seamoss, also known as seaweed, is a marine aquatic vegetable that is rich in nutrients 2.
- It has a natural and sustainable origin and can come from marine aquaculture or controlled fisheries.
Nutritional Value
- Seamoss has high nutritional value as a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and especially minerals 2.
- It is known for its high mineral content, which is gathered from seawater depending on the seasonal variation and the environment.
- The mineral content of seamoss is at least 10 times higher than terrestrial plants and can reach 20-50% of its dry weight.
Health Benefits
- Seamoss can make an important contribution to the daily intake of minerals and is a promising source of essential minerals for functional food, food supplements, and nutraceuticals 2.
- Omega-3 fatty acids found in seamoss have been shown to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease death and have antiatherosclerotic and antithrombotic effects 3, 4.