Updated: 12/5/23
Are you looking for a new health supplement to add to your diet? Then consider kelp extract, the magical seaweed! Kelp is loaded with essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, antioxidants, potassium, magnesium and iron – that are said to benefit everything from digestion to immunity. This powerful plant can be enjoyed in many forms such as powder or pill form – making it easy for anyone wanting improved health to integrate into their daily routine. Read on and discover why integrating kelp supplements into your diet could be the key ingredient you’ve been missing!
What is Kelp Extract?
Kelp is a type of seaweed that grows in shallow, nutrient-rich waters. It’s a staple food in many cultures around the world and has been used for centuries for its healing properties. Kelp extract, on the other hand, is made by extracting the nutrients and compounds from the kelp plant. These nutrients include iodine, fucoidan, and alginates, all of which have been studied for their health benefits.
The process of making kelp extract involves harvesting the seaweed and drying it out to remove excess water. Once the seaweed is dry, it’s ground up and processed to create a concentrated extract. The extract can then be added to foods or supplements to provide a rich source of nutrients and minerals.
Kelp extract can be added to a variety of foods and supplements, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. You can add kelp extract to smoothies, salads, soups, and more to get the benefits of this superfood. Kelp extract is also available in supplement form, so you can take it in a convenient capsule or tablet.
Kelp Extract Benefits
Powerhouse of Vitamins and Minerals
It is a type of seaweed that grows in shallow oceans and is packed with nutrients like iodine, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. These are minerals often found in poor dietary sources. Iodine, for instance, is essential for healthy thyroid function, while potassium contributes to healthy blood pressure. Magnesium promotes better digestion and higher energy levels, while calcium helps keep bones and teeth healthy and strong.
Natural Source of Iodine
It is an excellent natural source of iodine, an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid hormone production. The thyroid gland controls various metabolic processes in the body, including weight management and hormone regulation. Consuming kelp extract can help ensure that your thyroid gland is functioning correctly, leading to improved metabolism and weight loss. A study conducted in 2012 showed that kelp extract can help reduce BMI and body fat in overweight individuals.
Helps Lower Cholesterol Levels
It contains a specific compound called fucoidan that has been shown to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the body. Several studies have shown that consuming kelp extract can reduce the risk of heart disease and improve heart health. Kelp extract also contains plant sterols that can help prevent the absorption of cholesterol in the body.
Natural Weight-Loss Supplement
It also helps boost weight loss efforts naturally. It is low in calories and high in fiber, helping one feel fuller for longer, reducing cravings, and preventing overeating. Additionally, kelp contains fucoxanthin, a compound that encourages the body to burn calories and promotes weight loss.
May Help Slow Down the Spread of Colorectal and Breast Cancer
Several studies suggest that it may help prevent or slow down the spread of cancer. Research indicates that the presence of fucoxanthin, a pigment present in kelp, inhibits the growth of cancer cells in the colon and breast. A compound called fucoidan, present in kelp, also has anti-tumor properties that prevent the spread of cancer cells. While there’s still a lot of research to be done, these findings are promising and give us a glimpse into the many ways kelp extract can benefit our health.
Promote Cardiovascular Health
It is an excellent source of fucoidan, sulfated polysaccharides that have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic effects. Fucoidan has been shown to reduce blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar. Moreover, it prevents the formation of blood clots that can cause a stroke or heart attack. Incorporating kelp extract into your diet can promote heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Boosts the Immune System
It contains several vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and selenium, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin C and E are powerful antioxidants that help fight off free radicals, while zinc and selenium help support healthy immune function.
May Support Healthy Thyroid Function
As mentioned earlier, iodine is an essential mineral found in kelp that contributes significantly to thyroid health. A healthy thyroid is responsible for regulating metabolism and hormones, so ensuring you get enough iodine may support a healthy thyroid and aid in weight loss and management.
Maintains Blood Glucose Levels
It has been shown to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. This is because it contains a compound called fucoxanthin, which has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake. Fucoxanthin has also been found to have anti-diabetic and anti-obesity properties.
Supports Digestive Health
It is rich in vitamins and minerals that promote good digestive health. It contains essential vitamins B and C, which promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria and may help reduce inflammation. Kelp extract also contains high levels of dietary fiber, aiding in regular bowel movements, reducing constipation, and improving overall gut health.
May Promote Healthy Skin and Hair
It has gained popularity in skincare products because of its incredible nourishing properties, promoting healthy skin and hair. Topical application of kelp can help reduce inflammation and skin irritation and improve overall skin hydration. Furthermore, kelp contains antioxidants that may help prevent premature aging.
Prevents Anemia
Finally, it is an excellent way to support proper blood health. It’s packed with iron, which is an essential nutrient for the formation of red blood cells. This can help prevent anemia, a condition where there are not enough red blood cells in the body. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and other symptoms, so it’s critical to get enough iron in your diet.
Kelp Extract Side Effects
High Iodine Levels
Kelp extract is a rich source of iodine, a mineral that is essential for thyroid function. However, consuming too much iodine can be harmful and cause a number of side effects, such as thyroid dysfunction, stomach upset, and skin rashes. It is important to note that the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for iodine is 150 mcg, and one serving of kelp extract can contain up to 50,000 mcg of iodine. Therefore, it is crucial to consult your doctor before taking any kelp extract supplements.
Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Kelp extract is a natural source of fucoxanthin, a compound that is to aid in weight loss by reducing inflammation and regulating blood sugar levels. However, studies have shown that consuming high doses of fucoxanthin may have a negative effect on blood sugar levels. This can lead to a drop in blood sugar, which can cause symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and confusion. If you are diabetic or have blood sugar issues, it is best to avoid high doses of kelp extract and speak with your doctor first.
Heavy Metal Toxicity
As kelp extract is derived from sea plants, it may contain high levels of heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, and lead. These toxic metals can accumulate in the body and cause a range of health problems, such as nerve damage, kidney damage, and digestive issues. To avoid heavy metal toxicity, it is important to choose a high-quality kelp supplement that has been third-party tested for heavy metal contamination.
Might Worsen Pre-existing Thyroid Issues
While iodine is essential for human health and wellbeing, consuming too much iodine can be harmful to your thyroid gland. If you have a pre-existing thyroid condition, it is essential to talk to your healthcare provider before adding kelp extract to your diet. You must be careful not to put an extra load on your thyroid gland or facilitate iodine-related complications.
May Risk Developing a Hypersensitivity Reaction
As with other supplements and medications, there is the possibility for some individuals to react to kelp extract. A hypersensitivity reaction to kelp extract can cause symptoms like hives, itching, and difficulty breathing. Hence, it is essential to stop taking kelp extract immediately if you experience any of these symptoms and consult with your doctor.
Digestive Issues
Kelp extract contains a type of carbohydrate called fucoidan, which can have a prebiotic effect on the gut. However, some people may experience digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea when consuming high doses of kelp extract. To avoid these side effects, it is best to start with a low dose of kelp extract and gradually increase it over time.
Allergic Reactions
While kelp extract is generally safe for most people, some individuals may be allergic to certain compounds found in kelp. Symptoms of a kelp allergy may include hives, itchy skin, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking kelp extract, stop using it immediately and seek medical attention.
Are Kelp and Seaweed the Same Thing?
Kelp is a type of brown algae that typically grows in colder waters. It is usually in North America, Europe, and Asia. Kelp is famous for its long, dark green leaves that can grow up to 200 feet. This seaweed is rich in iodine, a mineral that helps support thyroid function and metabolic rate. It is also a good source of other essential nutrients like vitamin K, calcium, and iron. Kelp can be as dried flakes, supplements, or added to soups and salads.
On the other hand, seaweed is a general term used to describe all types of marine plants. There is a wide variety of seaweeds, including red, green, and brown algae. Like kelp, seaweed is also rich in iodine and other nutrients. But unlike kelp, seaweed can be in both warm and cold waters. It can be eaten raw, cooked, and is in use in soups, sushi, and even desserts. In addition to its nutritional value, seaweed is also known for its detoxifying properties and skin benefits.
So what’s the difference between kelp and seaweed? Kelp is a type of seaweed, but not all seaweeds are kelp. Kelp has a stronger, more distinct flavor than most seaweeds, which can make it unappealing to some people. Seaweed, on the other hand, has a milder, more versatile taste that can be used in a variety of dishes. Both kelp and seaweed are nutrient-rich, low in calories, and offer several health benefits.
Are Kelp Supplements Safe?
Kelp absorbs nutrients from the ocean, including heavy metals. For this reason, some people are hesitant to consume kelp supplements due to the possibility of heavy metal toxicity. However, studies have shown that kelp supplements grown in clean ocean waters have low levels of toxic heavy metals. So, it’s essential to purchase kelp supplements from reputable brands that source their kelp from rigorously tested and clean waters.
Why Take Kelp Supplement?
Kelp is a type of seaweed that has a range of vitamins and minerals. In fact, it boasts more than 70 minerals, including iron, calcium, and magnesium, as well as vitamin A, B, C, and E. These nutrients can help boost your immune system, support healthy bones and teeth, and improve your overall wellness.
Kelp Extract Dosage
As a dietary supplement, take 600 mg (just over a 1/4 tsp) daily with food or as directed by a doctor. Always consult your doctor before taking any supplement.
Adding Kelp to Your Diet
There are a number of different kelp supplements on the market. You can also buy kelp at some grocery stores and Asian food markets. It’s not the most appetizing food there is, so you may want to add it to meal recipes to disguise its taste!
Today, you can find a wide variety of recipes using kelp, which is fast becoming one of the most popular health foods among the health-conscious. But if you don’t want to cook with it, you can take kelp supplements, which are available in powders and extracts.
Where to Buy Kelp Extract
Looking to meet your dietary needs? Look no further than BulkSupplements.com! They’re the go-to company for pure dietary supplements. With their industry-leading status, they not only develop their own products, but also supply top-notch ingredients to other brands. Rest assured, all their products are manufactured and tested with the utmost adherence to industry standards. Don’t miss out on trying Kelp Extract as a dietary capsule supplement – place your order today at BulkSupplements.com!
The Bottom Line
Kelp extracts are gaining widespread popularity as a natural, healthy supplement option. While there are several benefits to taking kelp extract, it is essential to be aware of the potential side effects before incorporating it into your diet. We hope this post has provided actionable insights on kelp extract side effects, allowing you to make the best decision for your overall health and wellbeing. Talk to your healthcare provider to find the best therapeutic approach.
Kelp extract is truly a superfood supplement. From supporting blood sugar levels to boosting heart health, this amazing substance can make a significant difference in your daily life. Whether you want to take it as a part of a broader supplement regimen or simply add it to your diet, kelp extract is an investment in your health that is well worth considering. Just remember to talk to your doctor before adding any new supplements to your regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.