Kelp is a sea vegetable or seaweed that is a concentrated source of minerals, including iodine, potassium, magnesium, zinc, calcium, iron and betacarotene. Kelp as a source of iodine assists in making thyroid hormones, which are necessary for maintaining normal metabolism in all cells of the body.
What it does
Mild deficiency of iodine can lead to a sluggish metabolism and weight gain.
As a rich source of nutrients, some people take kelp to improve the condition of their hair, nails and skin.
Potential Uses
| iodine deficiency | immune improvement | weight loss |
What is kelp good for?
It is a good source of iodine, which is essential for thyroid function. It may also help to reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, and promote weight loss.
Here are some of the potential health benefits:
- Improved thyroid function: is a good source of iodine, which is essential for thyroid function. The thyroid is a gland that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development.
- Reduced inflammation: contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
- Boosted immune system: is a good source of vitamins and minerals that are important for immune function, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc.
- Weight loss: may help to promote weight loss by increasing satiety and reducing calorie absorption.
Natural sources of kelp
Kelp is a type of seaweed that grows in oceans around the world. It is available in a variety of forms, including fresh, dried, and powdered.
Some common sources include:
- Kombu
- Wakame
- Arame
- Hiziki
- Sea palm
Where to buy kelp powder
Kelp powder is available at most health food stores and online retailers. It can be added to smoothies, soups, stews, and other dishes.
How to take kelp
Kelp can be taken in a variety of forms, including fresh, dried, powdered, and capsule form.
- Fresh: should be rinsed thoroughly before eating. It can be eaten raw or cooked.
- Dried: should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before eating. It can be eaten raw or cooked.
- Powder: can be added to smoothies, soups, stews, and other dishes.
- Capsules: are a convenient way to take this supplement. They are available at most health food stores and online retailers.
The recommended dosage depends on the individual’s needs and goals. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking kelp, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Here are a few recipes for how to take kelp if you want to improve your gut health and immune system:
Kelp Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup soy milk
- 1 banana
- 1/2 cup berries
- 1 scoop of protein powder
- 1 teaspoon of kelp powder
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Enjoy!
Kelp Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (such as carrots, celery, or zucchini)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of kelp powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the vegetables and broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the kelp powder and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Kelp Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 package of kelp noodles
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped carrots
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the noodles according to package directions.
- Drain and rinse the noodles.
- In a large bowl, combine the kelp noodles, cucumber, red onion, carrots, sesame seeds, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and black pepper.
- Toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
These recipes are just a few ideas for how to take kelp to improve your gut health and immune system. You can also add this powder to smoothies, soups, stews, and other dishes.
It is important to note that kelp is a good source of iodine, which is essential for thyroid function. However, too much iodine can be harmful to the thyroid. If you have any concerns about your iodine intake, talk to your doctor.
Cautions
High intakes of kelp may provide too much iodine and interfere with normal thyroid function.
People with thyroid disease should check with a doctor before taking supplements that contain kelp.
