Kelp Benefits and Nutrition Facts
Kelp is a kind of seaweed that is loaded with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that the body needs. Because of the iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium and several trace minerals that kelp has, it is an excellent multi-vitamin for daily use. Kelp is composed of leaf-like structures or blades that form from the stipes or stem-like formation of the herb.
Typically, kelp can be obtained dried, in powder form, or as a capsule. Aside from its medicinal properties, it is also used by people as a salt substitute or flavouring for drinks. Kelp can also be added to different types of food such as stews, soups, vegetables, and other grain varieties.
More importantly though is the amount of nutrients that kelp contains, along with the herb’s natural iodine. Natural iodine coming from plants is absorbed by the human body at a much slower pace than the synthetic type. This means that it is a lot safer and more helpful to be absorbed and utilized by the body. Iodine is vital for the proper function of the body and is especially important in keeping control over the thyroid, a gland that plays a key role in regulating the metabolism of the body. A malfunction of the thyroid can lead to chronic fatigue, and either weight gain or weight loss. When the thyroid gland is regulated naturally, kelp is able to maintain the growth and development of the body, its levels of energy, and body weight. Furthermore, iodine that is released by the thyroid can help in the prevention of various infections and diseases.
Some of The Primary Benefits of Kelp
There are several benefits that kelp can offer to keep the body healthy. For starters, kelp is frequently used for the treatment of hypothyroidism, which is mainly due to its active component – iodine. Because of this iodine content, people also make use of kelp when trying to lose weight. Kelp’s natural iodine stimulates the hormone production of the thyroid, which in turn is able to stimulate the metabolism of the body. This is the reason behind kelp being an efficient aid for weight loss.
Kelp is also known for its effectiveness in helping to alleviate the pain coming from arthritis. By taking kelp daily, the energy levels of the body is increased and the immune system is improved, which means that the body is better-equipped to fight off infections that try to attack it frequently. Kelp has also been shown to improve on the function of the liver. Additionally, it is a great help in fighting off cancer because of its ability in suppressing the growth of cancer cells. It has also been suggested that this herb could be an effective method of lowering blood pressure and serum cholesterol. The fucosterols that are present in kelp inhibit the levels of cholesterol present within the blood, along with blood pressure. This means that the risk of acquiring heart diseases is reduced as well.
Through the regular use of kelp, the hair and the nails become healthier and stronger. It has been used for so many years in the treatment of skin problems like acne and is great for regular skin care. It has also been effective in reducing cellulite as well. For pregnant women, kelp helps in normalizing the hormones and the glands, and is able to provide additional nutrients that women need at this time of their lives. Additionally, it is also able to reduce the bouts of morning sickness that accompany pregnancy.
Kelp helps people who suffer from poor digestion, flatulence, and constipation. It is also effective in maintaining healthy mucous membranes. Aside from being an AIDS suppressor, it is able to kill the herpes virus too.
Safety Precautions with the Use of Kelp
If you have never tried kelp before, you may want to watch out for certain symptoms that could occur should you be allergic to the herb. These could include rashes, hives, or difficulty in breathing. Should these symptoms manifest themselves, the use of kelp must be stopped, and getting in touch with your doctor is necessary. Kelp may also negatively interact with other types of medications you may be using. For this reason, it is always best to consult with your doctor first before taking kelp, especially if you are taking prescription medications for other medical conditions.
You will help keep your body regulated by adding a small amount of kelp in powder or kelp capsule form to supplement your daily diet. This will provide you with needed vitamins and minerals and may ward off health problems you never knew you would have faced.
January 31st, 2009 at 7:49 pm
A friend who says she knows a biologist who says that kelp can be bad for you. Is that in any way true?
March 11th, 2009 at 5:52 am
Ray – Kelp is a very natural source of great health-boosting ingredients. We are aware of no evidence that demonstrates it as being harmful.