Sea moss is a type of seaweed that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments. It is rich in minerals, dietary fibers, and phytonutrients, and is believed to have many health benefits. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming sea moss. Having too much iodine in the diet can cause a goiter or an enlarged thyroid gland, which may require surgery.
Eating sea moss along with amiodarone may increase iodine levels in the blood. Too much iodine in the blood can cause side effects that affect the thyroid. Sea moss can absorb toxic metals such as arsenic, mercury and lead from the water in which it grows. These can be dangerous in large quantities.
In a study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, rats fed Irish moss showed significant improvements in intestinal microbiota composition. If you're worried that you might be allergic to sea moss, get tested on a patch or contact an allergist for allergy testing before taking sea moss for first time. Iodine poisoning is the main concern here, but once again, it all comes down to eating too much sea moss. Sea moss is a natural source of iodine, a mineral essential for the functioning and health of the thyroid (gland). Only an intake of 286 grams of sea moss per day was there a risk of iodine toxicity, and this dose is much higher than what most consumers would take daily.
Therefore, while iodine poisoning is a possible warning for consumers of sea moss, it is highly unlikely to occur if the recommended daily dosage is maintained. Sea moss has some potential benefits, but studies evaluating these effects have been done in laboratories or on animals. Sea moss can interact negatively with certain medications, such as blood thinners and thyroid medications. A medical review published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that the minerals, dietary fibers and phytonutrients in sea moss can help reduce the risk of diseases. The fact that it is rich in many vitamins and minerals may lead many people to believe that sea moss is a very powerful plant food. But how do real people describe the effects of regular use of sea moss? We'll discuss in the next section.
Sea moss contains a compound called fucoidan that reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body and has direct effects against influenza A, hepatitis B and HIV, according to the medical review listed above. A medical review published in the journal Environmental Science and Pollution Research examined the risk of iodine intake from two common types of sea moss. Many health and wellness influencers claim that sea moss can have life-changing health benefits, while others are more skeptical. Taking sea moss together with medicines for an overactive thyroid may change the effects of these medications. In conclusion, while sea moss has many potential health benefits, it is important to be aware of its potential risks as well. Eating too much sea moss can lead to iodine poisoning or other side effects due to its absorption of toxic metals from water.
It can also interact negatively with certain medications. Therefore, it is important to consult with your doctor before taking any form of sea moss.